Elections to ethanol blending: Sugar production drop weighs on stakeholders

The government reportedly considering a blanket ban on exports to cool down prices

The more than 9 per cent drop in sugar production in  in the 2022-23 season, which started in October, resulting in ex-mill prices increasing, has varied implications: From electoral politics to the ethanol-blending programme.
 

Sugar being a sensitive commodity, a prolonged spike in its prices during state elections in North India or Lok Sabha polls in 2024 will be a political tool for the Opposition.
 

Ex-mill sugar prices in some places have increased by Rs 100-200 per quintal in the past month and a half due to a sudden spike in demand amid a slowdown in supplies. The government has