In the aftermath of the devastating Pahalgam terror attack, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated, with Indian leaders issuing stern warnings to Islamabad. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Home Minister Amit Shah have made it clear that any future acts of terrorism will invite even stronger retaliatory strikes against terror camps in Pakistan.
Despite the heightened tensions, Pakistan’s Prime Minister reportedly sought a secret deal with India, which has now been rejected by New Delhi. Sources reveal that the proposal was related to sugar imports—a critical necessity for Pakistan amidst its ongoing economic crisis.
In 2023, Pakistan imported $74.8 million worth of raw sugar, with $66.3 million sourced from India. This trend continued in 2024, with India exporting $101.06 million worth of cane and beet sugar to Pakistan. A report by Al Jazeera highlighted that improved ties led Pakistan to allow sugar imports from India. However, the relationship has soured significantly due to ongoing terror activities.
Pakistan’s reliance on sugar imports is evident from its production and consumption forecasts for the current financial year, which ends in July 2025. The country is expected to produce 6.8 million tonnes of sugar while consuming approximately 6.7 million tonnes. Yet, dwindling reserves and an unstable economy have left Pakistan desperate to secure its sugar needs.
India, however, remains firm in its stance. A senior government official stated, “There will be no deals and no talks until Pakistan completely halts its support for terrorism. The safety and sovereignty of our nation take precedence over any trade agreements.”
Prime Minister Modi also reiterated that India’s commitment to eradicating terrorism is unwavering. The Pahalgam attack, which claimed innocent lives, has further galvanized the nation to demand accountability from its western neighbor.
India’s refusal to engage in trade negotiations serves as a clear message to Pakistan: economic cooperation and peace are conditional on the cessation of cross-border terrorism and hostile activities in Jammu and Kashmir.
