The country's sugar consumption is seen to be up by 7.14 per cent to 22.5 million tonnes during 2008-09 season, though production is seen lower at 15.5 lakh tonnes for the same period.
The Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution K V Thomas said in a written reply in the Lok Sabha that sugar consumption is projected at 22.5 million tonnes in the current season, against 21 million tonnes in the last year same period.
Whereas sugar production is pegged lower by 41 per cent at 15.5 million tonnes from last season, he said, adding that in order to augment domestic supply, the government has allowed import of raw sugar and refined white sugar.
Imports are allowed with a view to keep sugar prices at a reasonable level, Thomas noted.
The government has permitted designated trading agencies to import upto one million tonnes of duty-free white sugar under open general licence till August 1, he said.
This apart, the Centre has also allowed sugar factories to import raw sugar till September 3 and sell the processed sweetener within the country so as to increase availability, he added.
Sugar season runs from October to September.
