India's sugar exports reach 2.01 LT till Feb

As of February in the 2025-26 marketing year, India has exported a total of 201,547 tonnes of sugar, according to the All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA). The United Arab Emirates emerged as the leading market for Indian sugar, receiving 47,006 tonnes, followed closely by Afghanistan and Djibouti. The Indian government has set a total export cap of 2 million tonnes for this marketing year, with a recent increase allowing an additional 500,000 tonnes to be exported. AISTA reported that white sugar comprised the majority of shipments at 163,000 tonnes, while refined sugar accounted for 37,638 tonnes. The anticipated rise in sugar production for the year is pegged at 29.6 million tonnes, marking a 13% increase from the previous year. This growth excludes sugar diverted for ethanol production. AISTA welcomed the government's export strategy, which includes a new non-transferable quota that encourages active exporting mills while preventing idle mills from profiting off tradable quotas. This dual system aims to streamline exports and support genuine exporters as they navigate the competitive market landscape.