India shortens sugar dealer holding period to 15 days to deter hoarding

On October 1, the Indian government issued new guidelines limiting sugar dealers to a 15-day holding period, intended to curb speculative stockpiling before major festivals. While most regions face a 1,000-quintal cap, Kolkata and its surrounding metropolitan area, together with Assam, are allowed up to 2,000 quintals. Officials highlighted a 15% fall in retail sugar prices since August and a 28% drop in ex-mill rates, attributing the trend to the new measures.

The policy also urges mills, wholesalers and retailers to move sugar swiftly through the supply chain and pass on cost savings to consumers. Additionally, the government warned of El Niño-related rainfall deficits and asked state authorities to monitor crushing schedules to protect both farmers and buyers.