One of the core reasons why it is so difficult to manage demand and supply balance is that the agriculture value chain is mostly undocumented and fragmented. – AFP/File Photo The challenges in managing sugar supply chain and controlling prices are not unique to Imran Khan. Such supply shocks have been recurring and are not just limited to sugar but have also hit other essential food and agri produce. One of the core reasons why it is so difficult to manage demand and supply balance is that the agriculture value chain is mostly undocumented and fragmented. Over the years, numerous task forces and donor-funded agencies have published studies identifying the issues – in particular the inefficiencies due to middlemen or as they are known locally, “aarthis”.