Smuggling top problem for sugar scarcity.

I am presently working as Resident Director of Faran Sugar Mills Limited where my main emphasis has been on innovative approach, research and development focussing on the grower's economics. We at Faran, work in coordination with all research institutes in Pakistan, which ultimately consequence in an increase in yield per hectare to the tune of 75 per cent in our operational area. Training of growers as well as our staff on the latest agronomical practices and up-to-date technological advancement by way of seminars, workshops, regular village meetings is a regular feature of our development programme communication with cane growers through publications from time to time is a continuous routine.

Laser levelling, solar tube wells, soil sampling, double cropping and the introduction of the latest irrigation technologies like sprinkle irrigation are some of the main features.

PAGE: It is being claimed that sugar millers have earned over Rs500 billion over the course of one year. How would you comment on it?

Riaz Javed Suleri: This is a highly exaggerated figure and the same can be verified from the accounts submitted and printed by the stock exchanges. The fact of the matter is the price of sugar remains depressed in the whole summer season from Rs72 per kg to 92 per kg.

PAGE: Sugar is being sold for Rs80 per kg what is your standpoint about it?

Riaz Javed Suleri: At the last leg of the off-season increase in price to the level of Rs170 will not impact much on the wholesale value of the commodity present 20 per cent general sales tax and 28 per cent interest rate of the banks also contribute to this factor. The international market is also at Rs250-260 per kg.

PAGE: Your perspective about the export or import of sugar at this juncture to curtail prices.

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