India lifts bulk sugar stock limit to 30 days as festivals approach
The government has doubled the permissible stockholding period for bulk sugar users to 30 days, with any extra inventory required to come from imported sugar.
The Department of Food and Public Distribution announced that bulk sugar consumers may now hold inventory for 30 days, double the earlier limit of 15 days. Users consuming over 10 tonnes monthly must source any stock beyond the original cap exclusively from sugar imported under the Tariff Rate Quota or the Advance Authorisation Scheme, while open-market purchases remain limited to 15 days. A new online portal requires weekly disclosure of holdings every Friday.
The policy shift follows consultations with major industrial users seeking greater flexibility ahead of the festival rush. Officials noted that although ex-mill prices have fallen sharply, retail prices have not kept pace, urging the value chain to pass on savings to consumers. From October 1, 2026, farmers will receive a higher Fair and Remunerative Price of Rs 365 per quintal, and the ministry will continue monitoring supply and prices.
Why it matters
The rule gives manufacturers more leeway to meet festive demand while trying to keep domestic sugar supplies stable.
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