Illovo Sugar Malawi says the current challenges in the availability of sugar is primarily being driven by informal cross-border trade that has led to the commodity being diverted by local traders to neighboring countries
It said the development has created a shortage in some areas of the local markets, despite having released sufficient stocks to meet domestic demand.
This is contained in a press release dated 23rd May from the Sugar Company.
Illovo further attributed the delay in starting of its 2025 crushing season at both Nchalo and Dwangwa estates, caused by ongoing adverse weather conditions including unexpected rains which affected field access and slowed down harvesting operations as another reason for the availability of the product.
“As a result, production is yet to reach full capacity. We expect this to improve as weather conditions stabilize and field operations normalize in the next couple of weeks.
“Illovo remains committed to restoring stable supply and is working closely with all stakeholders to manage the situation”. reads the press release.
Of late sugar has been one of the most sought after commodities in the country and has led to people queuing for it and being told to buy one packet per customer.
In most outlets it’s being sold at K6, 000 against the recommended price of K3, 000.
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