European traders reported on Friday that Pakistan's Trading Corporation of Pakistan, a state-owned agency, had issued an international tender for the purchase and import of 300,000 metric tons to 500,000 metric tonnes of white refined sugar.

The deadline to submit price offers is July 18

The Pakistani government approved plans on July 8 to import 500,000 tonnes of sugar in order to maintain price stability.

Analysts said retail sugar prices have increased sharply in the country since January.

Sugar is required from all over the world, in bags. A minimum of 25,000 tonnes can be offered. Traders said that the TCP reserves its right to buy more or less than tender volumes.

The shipment is to be made in several consignments that will load in August. The full volume must be delivered to Pakistan by 30 September. Michael Hogan is reporting, and Eileen Soreng is editing.

(source: Reuters)