Sugar prices have been rising at an accelerated pace across the country recently. In Uttar Pradesh, India’s largest sugar-producing state, ex-mill prices have reached ₹4,400 to ₹4,500 per quintal, while wholesale prices in Delhi currently range between ₹4,750 and ₹4,800. In just one month, prices have seen a steep hike of approximately ₹300 per quintal.
Traders estimate that if this upward trend continues, ex-mill prices could touch ₹5,000 to ₹5,100 per quintal by the time the new crushing season begins in October. To keep prices under control, the Central Government is actively considering imposing stock limits on sugar mills and traders. However, industry experts argue that while stock restrictions might offer a temporary fix for retail prices, they risk creating unwarranted pressure on the overall supply chain. Industry associations have clarified that India has sufficient sugar reserves to meet domestic requirements and have strongly advised against panic buying.
