KARACHI (January 09 2004): As many as 15 sugar mills in Sindh are reported to have cleared all the dues payable to growers relating to the price fixed by the government.

There are 29 sugar mills in Sindh. After the payment by 15 mills, the remaining 13 mills have promised to clear their dues within a fortnight.

This assurance has been given by the mils at a meeting held with the Sindh cane commissioner a couple of days ago.

Last year, the government had fixed Rs 43 for 40 kilograms of sugar cane. But, the mills paid the price, which ranged between Rs 38 and 40.

The balance was to be cleared before December 31 last. As many as 13 mills have yet to clear the balance.

The question of payment of the quality premium is still hanging in balance. It is reported that an amount Rs 10.7 million is to be paid by the mills in respect of the quality premium. All the mills are silent on this issue.

The Sindh government is, however, pressing the mills to make this payment as early as possible.

Courtesy Business Recorder