Government Extends Duty-Free Raw Sugar Import Deadline to December 31, 2026

The government has extended the deadline for duty-free imports of 10 lakh tonnes of raw sugar to December 31, 2026, according to news reports. The earlier deadline was October 31, 2026.  

The extension applies to imports under the existing Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) and does not increase the permitted quantity. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) amended the import policy condition following the earlier notification issued on August 20, 2026.  

All other conditions specified in that notification remain unchanged. 

Only 2.6 Lakh Tonnes Imported So Far 

The government had allowed imports of 10 lakh tonnes of raw sugar on August 20 to support domestic availability. However, around 2.6 lakh tonnes have been imported so far, according to industry data. 

Reports citing industry sources noted that imports have remained limited due to a lack of price parity between domestic and international markets. The extended deadline gives importers more time to bring in supplies if international prices fall to levels that make imports viable. 

The revised policy covers raw sugar classified under Exim Code 170114 of Chapter 17 of the ITC (HS), 2022. The duty-free facility will remain available until December 31, subject to the existing conditions. 

Sugar Production Estimate Cut to 306 Lakh Tonnes 

The extension comes as India's sugar production estimate for the 2025-26 marketing year has been reduced. Production is now estimated at 306 lakh tonnes, compared with the earlier forecast of 343 lakh tonnes. 

The marketing year runs from October to September. Annual domestic sugar demand is estimated at 280-285 lakh tonnes. 

Alongside the import facility, the government has imposed stockholding limits on traders to maintain domestic availability and keep prices in check amid tight supplies. 

Read More: India Post Reports 25% Revenue Growth to ₹4,202 Crore in Q2 FY27! 

Conclusion 

The duty-free import deadline has been extended without any change to the 10 lakh tonne quota. The extent of imports will depend on international prices, while the government continues to take measures to manage domestic sugar supplies. 

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