India Sugar Imports May Arrive Before October 15
India could begin receiving imported raw sugar before October 15, 2026, after the government allowed duty-free imports of up to 10 lakh tonnes to ease tight domestic supplies and curb rising prices. Brazil is expected to be the principal source, although the exact volume arriving before mid-October remains uncertain.
India Sugar Imports Expected Before October 15
National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories President Prakash Naiknavare said some shipments could reach Indian ports before October 15.
Brazil is currently considered the most viable supplier, as Thailand is facing its own supply constraints. Shipping from Brazil typically takes around 40–45 days, with additional time required for port clearance and movement to sugar mills.
Imports also depend on regulatory approvals, letters of credit, vessel scheduling and congestion at Brazilian ports.
Government Allows 10 Lakh Tonnes Duty-Free Sugar
The Centre permitted duty-free imports of up to 10 lakh tonnes of raw sugar on August 20 after domestic sugar prices rose sharply amid supply concerns.
Prices had climbed by about 24% in a month to around ₹56–60 per kg across retail and wholesale markets. Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh are expected to receive imported supplies faster because of their proximity to ports.
The government has also tightened stockholding restrictions and stepped up inspections to discourage hoarding and speculative trading.
Sugar Output Estimated at 279 Lakh Tonnes
The cooperative federation continues to estimate net sugar production for the 2025-26 season at 279 lakh tonnes, excluding approximately 24 lakh tonnes diverted for ethanol production.
Opening stocks for the 2026-27 season are projected at around 35 lakh tonnes against monthly domestic consumption of roughly 22 lakh tonnes.
India had also permitted exports of up to 20 lakh tonnes, but only about 8 lakh tonnes were ultimately shipped because international prices made exports commercially unattractive.
