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Govt Curbs Sugar Hoarding: New Stock Limits Enforced
1 Oct
Summary
- Sugar dealers can now hold stock for a maximum of 15 days.
- Stock limit set at 1,000 quintals nationwide, with exceptions.
- Rules in effect from October 15 to November 30, 2026.
The government has introduced stricter regulations on sugar stock holding to guarantee sufficient supplies and stable prices as the festive season approaches. Effective from October 15 through November 30, 2026, sugar dealers are now restricted to holding a maximum of 1,000 quintals of sugar for a period not exceeding 15 days. This policy aims to prevent artificial accumulation and speculative practices within the supply chain.
Exceptions to the 1,000-quintal limit are in place for Kolkata's metropolitan area and Assam, where dealers may hold up to 2,000 quintals. These new rules are designed to ensure a seamless flow of sugar from mills to consumers. Retail sugar prices have seen a significant decrease of approximately 15% since their August peak, with ex-mill prices down by about 28% and holding steady.
Sugar mills have been advised to commence their crushing operations, which began on October 1, based on regional agricultural and weather conditions. The government is monitoring the impact of El Niño-induced rainfall patterns on sugarcane crops. The central administration is committed to balancing domestic sugar availability, consumer interests, and the welfare of sugarcane farmers, reiterating their focus on these two key areas in national sugar policy.
