The Hindu : Business : Sugar export ban to be reviewed

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Tuesday, Aug 01, 2006

Business

Business

Sugar export ban to be reviewed

Special Correspondent

States to be consulted after crushing season begins

NEW DELHI: The Centre will review its policy of banning sugar export and consider allowing exports in consultation with the State governments when crushing of cane begins in October, Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar informed the Lok Sabha here on Monday.

Speaking during question hour, Mr. Pawar said the Government would review the situation and take a decision in the interest of sugarcane farmers. We will sit with State governments to study the international scenario and take a decision,'' he said. The Government has prohibited export of sugar till March 31 next year, except for export of preferential quota to the European Union and the U.S.

According to Mr. Pawar, the ban was imposed in July in view of a "temporary situation'' in the country and the decision was taken in order to protect the consumer. The retail price of sugar hovered between Rs. 20 and Rs. 21 during the entire year.

PTI reports:

Stocks in transit

The Government clarified that sugar stocks taken out of mills before June 22 would be allowed for exports. Stocks that were already in transit would also be eligible for exports, an official release said.

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Business