Govt caps sugar stock for bulk consumers until November

The government has imposed a stock limit on sugar for bulk consumers, restricting them to holding a maximum of 10 tonnes for 15 days. The order, notified as the Sugar (Stockholding Limit of Bulk Consumers) Order, 2026, is effective from September 1 to November 30, covering confectioners, soft drink makers, food processing units, sweetmeat sellers and other institutional buyers with average monthly consumption of at least 10 tonnes. The Times of India reports the move comes as wholesale sugar prices in Maharashtra rose nearly 20 per cent in August to a record Rs 5,350 per 100 kg, while retail prices climbed 13 per cent year-on-year to Rs 52.30 per kg.

Rediff.com notes the stock limit is aimed at stabilising prices ahead of the festival season when demand typically rises. The government is also considering reducing the diversion of sugarcane for ethanol production to improve sugar availability, according to The Times of India. Industry estimates for opening stock of the 2026-27 sugar season, starting October 1, range from 32-42 lakh tonnes, below the estimated domestic requirement of about 50 lakh tonnes. The order does not apply to central or state government institutions.