Public Notice No. 18/2025-2026, Dated 01-08-2025
TRQ Allocation for Sugar Export to European Union
The Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued a public notice announcing the allocation of 5,841 metric tonnes (MT) of sugar (classified under HS Code 17010000) for export to the European Union (EU) under the Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) scheme for the financial year 2025-26. The export window for this allocation will run from October 2025 to September 2026, as part of India’s preferential trade commitments under the TRQ mechanism with the EU.
Export Classification and Compliance Conditions
This sugar export quota is classified as ‘Free’, indicating that no individual export license is required from the DGFT. However, such exports must strictly comply with the terms and conditions specified in Notification No. 03/2015-20, dated 20th April 2015. This includes documentation requirements, product standards, and registration procedures, ensuring only eligible exporters benefit from the quota system.
Issuance of Certificate of Origin
To avail preferential tariff benefits under the EU TRQ scheme, exporters must obtain a Certificate of Origin (CoO). This CoO will be issued by the Additional Director General of Foreign Trade (Mumbai). The issuance will be based on recommendations provided by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), which will vet applicants to confirm their eligibility under the TRQ regime.
Role of APEDA in TRQ Operation
The management and implementation of the TRQ quota have been entrusted to APEDA, headquartered in New Delhi. APEDA will be responsible for coordinating with sugar exporters, verifying applications, processing CoO recommendations, and ensuring that the allocated quantity is effectively utilized within the stipulated timeline. This institutional framework is designed to ensure transparency and compliance with international trade obligations.
Significance for the Sugar Industry
This allocation opens a strategic export opportunity for India’s sugar industry by offering market access to the high-value European market under preferential tariff conditions. It may benefit both sugar mills and traders, potentially improving domestic sugar prices and easing inventory pressure, especially during the peak production season.
Monitoring and Compliance Mechanism
Exporters availing this quota will be subject to monitoring by APEDA and DGFT to ensure compliance with TRQ conditions. Any misuse or non-compliance may result in disqualification from future quota allocations and penal action under the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act. Exporters are thus advised to maintain accurate records and follow all procedural requirements diligently.
