The Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has said India has adequate sugar stocks and that the recent firmness in prices is temporary, rather than the result of any structural shortage. It estimates 2025–26 net sugar production at around 279 lakh tonnes (LMT), against domestic consumption of 280–285 LMT, with closing stocks projected at around 35 LMT.
ISMA attributed the recent price rise to lower-than-expected production, festive demand, market sentiment and firmer international sugar prices. It welcomed the Government’s measures, including a 10 LMT duty-free raw sugar import window, stockholding restrictions, stock verification and weekly disclosures.
ISMA, along with NFCSF and sugar mills, is also working to advance the 2026–27 crushing season by 10–15 days. Special crushing has already begun in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, with October production expected to reach around 10 LMT against the usual 4 LMT.
The industry body said ethanol is not responsible for the price increase, noting that grain-based ethanol now accounts for an estimated 75% of total ethanol supply.
