India has imposed a ban on sugar exports until the end of September

Indian authorities have imposed a ban on sugar exports until September 30, 2026. The relevant order was published by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade.

“The policy on sugar exports, including raw sugar, white sugar, and refined sugar, has been changed from the ‘restricted’ category to the ‘prohibited’ category with immediate effect and until September 30, 2026, or until further notice,” the notification states.

Previously, sugar exports were classified as ‘restricted,’ which required a special license for exports. The current ban is intended to increase sugar supply in the domestic market and contain prices amid inflation risks and the general uncertainty caused by the conflict in the Middle East.

The order does not apply to sugar exported to the EU and the US under special agreements. These agreements allow exporters to supply specified volumes of sugar to these regions with significantly reduced or zero customs duties.

India is the world’s second-largest sugar producer after Brazil. Total sugar production in the 2025-26 season, excluding ethanol production, is projected to reach 29.3 million tonnes, exceeding the 26.12 million tonnes projected for the 2024-25 season.

Tags: sugar, India, restrictions, export