THIS is apropos of the news item regarding removal of duty on the export of molasses (Nov 20). It is strange that owners of sugar mills demand a level playing field with ethanol distilleries and ask for a fair price of their product, i.e., molasses.

The sugar mill owners in the country may not be more than 100, and they all must be rich people who are facing only a certain portion of their profits compromised against distilleries.

But what about millions of small and medium-sized farmers who are being fleeced every year by these sugar mill tycoons on account of late start of sugar mill crushing season, forced reduction of rates, etc. For growers, it is not the issue of reduced profits but a question of basic livelihood and sustenance.

In fact, the sugar mill owners have cartelised against millions of poor farmers but due to their political clout on both sides of the benches, nothing can be done despite protests by farmers.

DR TAHIR QURESHIMatiari