Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde requests Centre to continue with open export policy for sugar for 2022-23

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has requested the Centre to continue with its open export policy for sugar for 2022-23. In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr. Shinde has said that quota policy for sugar exports will adversely affect the industries in Maharashtra.

Seeking the Prime Minister’s intervention and necessary instructions to the commerce ministry, food and public distribution as well as consumer affairs ministries, Mr. Shinde said India proved to be a major exporter last year due to the open policy. He added that the quota based policy will



create unnecessary administrative hurdles and lack transparency as not all sugar industries may be interested in exporting their product.

Stating that Brazil is currently focussed on production of ethanol rather than sugar, Mr. Shinde said India can reap the advantage and earn precious foreign exchange. The Chief Minister stated that all the sugar factory related associations and federations in the state are in favour of an open policy and hence the Centre may consider their views and issue directions accordingly.