The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) has approved the importation of up to 424,000 metric tons (MT) of refined sugar under the first Sugar Import Program for crop year 2024-2025.
This move aims to stabilize local supply and prices and ensure sufficient buffer stocks for domestic use.
According to Sugar Order No. 8, Series of 2024-2025, the approved import volume includes 7,500 MT of sugar specifically earmarked for re-export to the United States. This allocation falls under Section 3.2 of the order and is calculated at a 1:0.25 ratio (sugar actually exported to the U.S. versus imported sugar) as a contingency. This measure is in place should U.S.-bound shipments face higher tariffs under the “second vessel” provision, which applies when an initial vessel’s capacity is insufficient for the entire allocated quantity.
The majority of the import allocation is for domestic consumption, with 199,000 MT of refined sugar designated for eligible participants under Sugar Order No. 5. Another 99,000 MT of refined sugar is allocated based on eligibility criteria in Sugar Order No. 2, targeting traders not included in the previous import round.
An additional 118,500 MT is set aside for other eligible participants across both Sugar Order Nos. 2 and 5.
The SRA stated that the import program is a preemptive government intervention to address an expected tightening of supply after the milling season, a projection based on historical data and stakeholder input. The agency emphasized that only licensed international sugar traders in good standing will be permitted to participate.
This order is part of the government’s broader efforts to maintain market stability and prevent supply disruptions that could lead to price volatility.
