In a strategic policy move to balance domestic sugar supply and bolster pharmaceutical exports, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has opened applications for the export of pharma grade sugar under a newly introduced restricted category quota. The government has capped the total export limit at 25,000 metric tonnes (MT) for the current sugar season, ending September 30, 2025.

Only eligible pharmaceutical exporters can apply for this quota between June 20 and July 20, 2025, exclusively through the DGFT’s online portal under “Non-SCOMET Restricted Items.” No physical applications will be accepted, and each IEC (Importer Exporter Code) holder is allowed to submit just one application, ensuring fair and transparent allocation.

This one-time quota is part of a government initiative to enable exports of tightly regulated, high-quality pharma grade sugar, essential in drug formulation. The allocation will be made on a pro-rata basis based on the production capacity of the applicants.

To qualify, exporters must hold a valid drug manufacturing license from the respective State Licensing Authority (SLA), be registered with the Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil), and possess a valid Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC). Additionally, lab test reports from NABL-accredited laboratories must certify the sugar meets pharmaceutical-grade specifications.

Export authorizations granted under this scheme will be valid for one year, irrespective of the fiscal calendar. The DGFT has emphasized that incomplete, late, or improperly submitted applications will be summarily rejected.

Officials have also noted that the government reserves the right to modify eligibility norms or distribution methodology based on the number and nature of applications received.

Industry experts view the move as a significant step toward enhancing India’s position in global pharmaceutical supply chains. It supports the export of high-value, quality-sensitive products while enforcing rigorous regulatory controls.