India Lifts Duty on 1 Million Tonnes Sugar Imports

India approved duty-free imports of up to one million metric tonnes of raw sugar on Thursday to tackle rising domestic prices ahead of the festive season.

The Commerce Ministry announced that the duty waiver falls under a tariff rate quota and will remain active through October 31.

The tax cut aims to secure local sugar supplies amid concerns about reduced domestic yields due to below-average monsoon rainfall.

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The El Niño weather pattern—amplified by human-caused climate change—warmed Pacific Ocean temperatures, disrupting rainfall and driving local sugar prices to record highs.

India lifts duty on 1 million tonnes of sugar imports (News Central TV) — India lifts duty on 1 million tonnes of sugar imports. Credit: Reuters

The government plans to meet the spike in consumer demand for confections and sweets between September and January by increasing domestic stock.

The import measure follows a total export ban on sugar that India implemented in May to protect local supply through September 30.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.