SUGAR PRICE SOAR

By Kondwani Nyondo

Illovo Sugar (Malawi) PLC has announced an increase in sugar prices across all pack sizes, effective March,12 , 2025.

A one-kilogram (kg) packet of brown sugar will now retail at K3000, up from K2,600, while a kg packet of refined sugar has risen to k3400 from  K2,950.

Additionally, a bale of brown sugar will  now be selling for K63,651.

In a statement, Illovo attributed the price hike to inflationary pressures affecting the entire supply chain.

“These costs include, but are not limited to, rising expenses for essential raw materials and services required for sugar production,” the statement reads.

The sugar manufacturer also cited increasing transportation expenses as a major factor contributing to the price adjustments.

“Despite our diligent efforts to constrain costs internally, we have now reached a point where adjustments to our pricing structure are necessary to sustain our commitment to delivering quality sugar to the market,” the statement adds.

Last week, Minister of Trade Vitumbiko Mumba  conducted surprise visits to several shops, including Chipiku, where he accused retailers of hoarding sugar to create artificial shortages and inflate prices. 

He ordered the immediate release of withheld stock, arguing that sugar was available and there was no justification for the hike.

Ranted the minister : "This kind of exploitation must stop. We cannot allow businesses to manipulate the market at the expense of Malawians.”

Last year,2024,Illovo raised prices of sugar twice,in April and October.



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