Sugar Ex-Factory Prices Fall Sharply by 30 Percent

New Delhi: The average ex-factory price of sugar across India has fallen by nearly 30 percent from its peak level in August and now stands at around ₹4,450 per quintal.

In a joint statement, the two leading sugar industry organizations—the Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) and the National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories (NFCSF)—said that sugar ex-mill prices have now returned to near-normal levels. They added that increased supplies across the value chain have also begun to impact retail prices.

At the national level, the average retail price of sugar has declined by around 11–12 percent from its peak and is now approximately ₹57.50 per kg. Prices in major sugar-producing states have fallen even further below the national average. For example, on September 21, 2026, the average retail price was ₹55.09 per kg in Uttar Pradesh, ₹56.74 in Maharashtra, ₹56.19 in Karnataka and ₹57.45 in Tamil Nadu.

According to the joint statement, timely and stringent measures taken by the government, along with efforts by the industry, have created a softer environment in the sugar market. Sugar supplies and availability have improved significantly, and there are no reports of shortages anywhere.

The government has permitted the duty-free import of 1 million tonnes of sugar (raw value), which can be brought into the country until October 31, 2026. The rules governing sugar stock limits have also been tightened.

These measures are expected to provide some relief to consumers during the festive season.