Government Revises Sugar Stock Holding Norms to Prevent Hoarding Ahead of Festive Season

With the new sugar season beginning 1 October, the Government revised stock-holding norms for sugar dealers: from 15 October to 30 November 2026, dealers cannot hold stock for more than 15 days or exceed 1,000 quintals at any time, with a higher 2,000-quintal limit for Kolkata's extended metropolitan area and the state of Assam, given their role as regional supply hubs. The move aims to curb hoarding and speculative trading. Retail sugar prices have already declined 15% from their August peak and ex-mill prices by about 28%, trends the Government expects to continue as the benefit passes through the supply chain.