The Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association (PVMA) has called on the government to ensure the immediate release of Rs. 6.5 billion that the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) owes to ghee and cooking oil producers.
According to the association, these payments have been pending for more than a year, creating serious financial problems for manufacturers. The delay has affected their ability to manage daily operations, pay suppliers, and import raw materials needed for production.
PVMA Chairman Sheikh Umer Rehan warned that if the payments are not made soon, the situation could disrupt production lines and even lead to shortages in the supply of ghee and cooking oil.
He explained that producers are already struggling with high production costs and fluctuating global prices, and the delay in payments is making matters worse.
Rehan appealed to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Adviser Haroon Akhtar Khan to step in and help resolve the issue immediately. He said that the government’s support is necessary to keep the edible oil industry running smoothly and to prevent further damage to the economy.
The PVMA stressed that timely payments from USC are essential not only for the survival of manufacturers but also for protecting food security, employment, and investor confidence in the sector.
The association urged authorities to prioritize this matter, saying that clearing the dues would help stabilize the industry, restore trust, and ensure a steady supply of essential household items to consumers across the country.
