18/02/2026
ЁЯЗоЁЯЗ│ Sugar Balance Sheet 2025/26 (TraderтАЩs Perspective)
Opening Stock тАУ 47 LMT
Production тАУ 295 LMT
тАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФ
Total Available тАУ 342 LMT
Domestic Consumption тАУ 280 LMT
тАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФтАФ
Closing Balance тАУ 62 LMT
ЁЯУК Analysis
Required opening stock for next season (2026/27): 45 LMT
Surplus over required carryover: 17 LMT
Hence, exports of around 17 LMT are required for a balanced transition.
However, practically speaking, this appears challenging.
Although 20 LMT exports have been permitted, the actual shipment may not exceed 10 LMT.
This again is a strong reason for traders to remain cautious and avoid aggressive positioning.
ЁЯФО Market Sentiment Shift
Production revised downward from 310 LMT to 295 LMT.
Sentiment has shifted considerably after this correction.
Earlier expectations of sugar falling to тВ╣34/kg or lower in Maharashtra due to surplus now seem unlikely.
Therefore, at present, an MSP hike does not appear necessary.
Despite the reduced crop estimate, domestic availability remains comfortable, and the government has allowed exports to prevent stock pressure.
ЁЯУЙ Consumption View
Large FMCG players have pegged consumption between 270тАУ272 LMT.
We are conservatively assuming 280 LMT for a balanced outlook.
Even with lower consumption assumptions, India remains adequately supplied.
тЪЦя╕П Strategic Approach тАУ Play Safe
Both domestic and international positioning should be done cautiously.
The Government of India (GOI) is monitoring the industry very closely.
Any sudden or steep rise in domestic prices:
Benefits millers more than traders
May trigger policy intervention
Could impact export continuity
ЁЯОп Trump Cards with GOI
1я╕ПтГг Export Control Power
GOI can curb or restrict exports at any time if it observes a sharp rise in domestic prices.
2я╕ПтГг Next Season Crushing Flexibility
With Diwali falling in November next season, GOI can permit an early start to crushing (10тАУ15 days advance), increasing supply availability if required.
ЁЯУЭ Conclusion
Supply situation: Comfortable
Carryover: Safe
Exports: Policy dependent
Government control: Strong
ЁЯСЙ Trader Strategy:
Maintain balanced exposure. Avoid aggressive bullish buildup. Trade with disciplined risk management in view of policy uncertainties.