Centre tightens sugar stock limits for dealers from October 15
The Centre has announced tighter sugar stock limits for dealers during the festive season, with the revised measures applying from October 15 to November 30, 2026.
Dealers will be allowed to hold a maximum of 1,000 quintals and must not retain sugar for more than 15 days from receipt, according to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
A higher stock limit of 2,000 quintals will apply in Kolkata and its extended metropolitan areas, and in Assam. The ministry cited regional supply requirements and transport constraints for the higher limits.
The government said the measures are intended to curb hoarding and keep sugar moving through the distribution chain.
The ministry also reported that average retail sugar prices had fallen 15% from their August peak, while prices at the mill level had declined approximately 28%. It urged wholesalers and retailers to pass on the reduction to consumers.
The announcement coincided with the start of the new sugar season on October 1.
