India Caps Sugar Stock to Curb Festive-Season Price Hikes

The Indian government has announced new stock limits for sugar traders to prevent hoarding and ensure supply during the upcoming festival season, effective from October 15 to November 30, 2026. Under the revised rules, traders must not hold sugar for more than 15 days from receipt, with a maximum stock limit of 1,000 quintals nationwide. However, Kolkata, its extended metropolitan area, and Assam have a higher limit of 2,000 quintals due to geographical and transport constraints. The government reports that average retail sugar prices have already fallen 15 percent from August peaks, with mill prices down about 28 percent, reflecting the impact of its measures to ensure adequate supply and stable distribution.