COMMODITY
AISTA urges govt to raise sugar stock limit for dealers in Kolkata, adjoining areas to 1,000 tonnes
Aug-06-2026

In order to ensure a smooth sugar supply during the upcoming festival season, the All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA) has urged the government to raise the sugar stock limit for dealers in Kolkata and adjoining areas to 1,000 tonnes from the current 400 tonnes. It said the lower cap could disrupt supplies ahead of the festival season. The government had imposed a uniform stock limit of 400 tonnes on sugar dealers nationwide on July 28 to curb hoarding and speculation. 

AISTA Chairman Praful Vithalani said that when similar stock limits were imposed in March 2009 and October 2016, Kolkata and its adjoining areas were allowed a higher limit of 1,000 tonnes in recognition of the region's distinct supply chain. Under the current notification, however, this limit has been reduced by 60 per cent to 400 tonnes, raising concerns over sugar availability and the continuity of supplies.

He said neither West Bengal nor the northeastern states have operational sugar mills or refineries, adding that the region's entire sugar demand is met through full railway rakes transported from major sugar-producing states such as Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. A single rake carries about 2,700 tonnes of sugar. He said restricting dealers to a stock limit of 400 tonnes makes it virtually impossible for local traders to unload and store full rake consignments efficiently, which could lead to severe logistical bottlenecks. AISTA added that Kolkata serves as the main distribution hub for sugar supplies across West Bengal, while Guwahati performs the same role for the seven northeastern states.

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