ISLAMABAD: Utility Stores Corporation (USC), as part of its network expansion plan, has prepared a PC-1 to open 1,000 more new stores throughout the country.

There are 6000 Utility Stores functional throughout the country and addition of new stores would help the total number to touch 7,000 mark in future.

Sources at Ministry of Industries and Production on Wednesday said the case has been forwarded to Planning and Development Division for approval of competent forum.

The stores will be opened after approval of the proposed project of PC-1.

The sources said of the total 6000 Utility Stores throughout the country, there are 4,883 Regular Stores and 1,117 Franchise Stores.

With regard to subsidy being provided by government to Utility Stores at present, the sources said a subsidy of Rs2 billion for Ramazan Relief Package 2013 and under this essential commodities were subsidized which included Wheat Flour, Sugar, Pulses, Spices, Rice, Ghee/Oil, Basin, Dates, Tea, Squashes/Syrups and Milk.

They said presently only sugar is being sold on subsidized rates at USC outlets and the amount of subsidy during the current financial year works out to be Rs5.833 billion.