No shortage of sugar in India, retail prices to come down: industry body ISMA
The Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) has denied reports of a sugar shortage, stating that retail prices are expected to decline. The industry body attributes recent price hikes to speculative trading and weather-related production issues.
Why it matters
Clarifications from industry bodies regarding food supply are critical for managing consumer expectations and preventing panic-driven inflation.
Sugar industry's apex body ISMA on Monday (August 24, 2026) asserted that there is no shortage of sugar in the country and prices in the retail market are expected to come down.
Addressing a press conference, Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) President Niraj Shirgaokar said the prices have risen due to various factors, including speculative buying by traders and bulk consumers as well as lower production because of the bad weather conditions.
The ISMA president also categorically said that mills were not involved in creating artificial scarcity and jacking up the ex-mill prices.
Mr. Shirgaokar said the prices have started to ease following the government's decision to allow duty-free imports of 1 million tonnes of raw sugar.
"India does not have a sugar shortage," Mr. Shirgaokar told reporters in New Delhi.
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