India Halts Sugar Exports Amid Global Concerns

India has banned sugar exports until September 30, as per a government directive. Exemptions include exports to the EU and the US under special agreements, and other specific shipments. The decision aims to amend the sugar export policy from 'Restricted' to 'Prohibited'.

India's government has taken decisive action to halt the export of sugar until September 30. This directive was announced by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade on May 13. However, specific exceptions to this rule will allow sugar to be exported to the European Union and the United States under the tariff rate quota scheme.

In addition to this allowance, the order exempts other particular cases including the advance authorisation scheme, government-to-government exports, and shipments already in progress for physical export.

The significant move is part of a broader amendment of India's sugar export policy, changing it from 'Restricted' to 'Prohibited'. The policy will remain in place until September 30, 2026, or until further orders are issued.