Rising sugar exports in current marketing year
India Sugar Exports Rise Strongly in 2025-26 Marketing Year: India’s sugar exports crossed 2.01 lakh tonnes by February in the 2025–26 marketing year, according to the All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA). The marketing year for sugar runs from October to September, which differs from the financial year cycle.
Out of the total exports, white sugar accounted for 1.63 lakh tonnes, while refined sugar contributed 37,638 tonnes. These figures indicate steady progress toward the government’s approved export target.
Static GK fact: India is among the top three sugar producers globally, along with Brazil and Thailand, which dominate global sugar trade.
UAE emerges as top export destination
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) became the largest importer of Indian sugar during this marketing year. It imported 47,006 tonnes, followed by Afghanistan (46,163 tonnes), Djibouti (30,147 tonnes), and Bhutan (20,017 tonnes).
These export trends highlight India’s strong presence in West Asia and neighboring countries. The geographical proximity and trade agreements improve export competitiveness.
Static GK Tip: The UAE is India’s major trading partner in West Asia and plays a crucial role in India’s agricultural and food exports.
Government export quota strengthens regulation
The Government of India approved a total export quota of 2 million tonnes for the 2025–26 marketing year. Initially, 1.5 million tonnes were allowed, and later an additional 5 lakh tonnes quota was approved to boost exports.
Sugar exports operate under a quota allocation system, distributed proportionally among mills. This prevents excessive exports and ensures sufficient domestic availability.
This quota system also reduces speculative trading and supports genuine exporters. It ensures price stability and safeguards consumer interests.
Static GK fact: The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution regulates sugar policies in India, including production and export control.
Sugar production expected to rise significantly
India’s sugar production is expected to increase by 13 percent to 29.6 million tonnes in the 2025–26 marketing year. This estimate excludes sugar diverted for ethanol production under the government’s ethanol blending program.
Higher production improves India’s ability to meet both domestic and global demand. It also strengthens India’s position in global agricultural trade.
The ethanol blending programme, under the National Biofuel Policy, diverts excess sugar for fuel production. This helps reduce oil imports and improves farmer income.
Static GK fact: India launched the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme in 2003 to reduce fossil fuel dependence and promote renewable energy.
Role of AISTA in strengthening sugar trade
The All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA) was established on January 17, 2016, to represent India’s sugar industry stakeholders. It includes traders, millers, refiners, and exporters.
AISTA acts as a unified platform to promote fair trade and improve industry coordination. It also supports policy implementation and global market integration.
India’s sugar export growth reflects strong production capacity, effective policy regulation, and rising global demand. This ensures balanced domestic supply and enhances foreign exchange earnings.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India Sugar Exports Rise Strongly in 2025-26 Marketing Year:
| Topic | Detail |
| Total sugar exports | 2.01 lakh tonnes by February 2026 |
| Marketing year | October 2025 to September 2026 |
| Top export destination | United Arab Emirates |
| Total export quota | 2 million tonnes approved |
| Expected production | 29.6 million tonnes in 2025–26 |
| Production growth | Estimated 13 percent increase |
| Regulatory authority | Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution |
| Industry body | All India Sugar Trade Association established in 2016 |
| Major sugar producers globally | Brazil, India, Thailand |
| Related policy | Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme |
