



Behind India's abrupt sugar export ban, a worry over sufficient stocks
Subscribe to enjoy similar stories.India on Wednesday banned exports of raw, white and refined sugar till 30 September 2026, marking a sharp shift from the earlier “restricted” export regime to a “prohibited” category. However, the government has exempted exports to the US and the European Union under existing quota arrangements. Also, certain consignments already in the shipment pipeline are exempt, including cargo already loaded, shipments cleared by customs and exports under specific tariff-rate quotas.
The export ban will not impact government-to-government exports either. The immediate trigger is the concern over domestic availability and inflation. Mint explains the reasons behind the ban and its implications on the sugar industry.India’s domestic sugar consumption is estimated at around 28 million tonnes annually.
According to the Indian Sugar and Bio-energy Manufacturers Association (Isma), sugar production in the 2025-26 sugar season reached 27.528 million tonnes as of 30 April 2026, compared with 25.649 million tonnes in the corresponding period last year, marking an increase of about 7%. Only five sugar mills remained operational as of 30 April, against 19 mills during the same period a year ago. Industry executives expect total sugar production for the ongoing season to touch around 28 million tonnes, while opening stock levels are estimated at nearly 5 million tonnes.On exports, the Centre has allocated a quota of 2 million tonnes for the current season.
Read on livemint.com