DGFT Revises Export Policy for Pharma Grade Sugar – 25,000 MT Quota

The Government of India, through Notification No. 17 dated 17th June 2025, has permitted the export of Pharma Grade Sugar under a restricted export authorization. This move is intended to regulate and monitor exports of highly refined sugar used in pharmaceutical manufacturing, while supporting legitimate pharma exporters.

The policy is valid for the current sugar season up to 30th September 2025, with a total quota cap of 25,000 metric tonnes (MT).

Key Safeguards for Export of Pharma Grade Sugar

Export under this authorization will be strictly regulated and allowed only if the following conditions are met:

1. Total annual exports capped at 25,000 MT.
2. Valid Drug Manufacturing License from the concerned State Licensing Authority is mandatory.
3. Test reports and certification from NABL-accredited laboratories confirming compliance with Pharma Grade Sugar specifications must be submitted at the time of actual export.

Application Window & Methodology

• Online applications will be accepted from 20th June 2025 to 20th July 2025.
• Applications must be submitted through DGFT’s ECOM system (Non-SCOMET Restricted Items) as per Trade Notice No. 03/2021-22 dated 10th May 2021.
• No hard copy submission is required. Applications sent via email or post will not be entertained.
• Only one application per IEC (Importer-Exporter Code) will be allowed.

🖱️ Navigate to:
DGFT Website → Services → Export Management Systems → License for Restricted Exports

Quota Allocation Method

• Quota will be allocated on a pro-rata basis.
• The basis for allocation will be the production capacity declared by the applicant at the time of application.

Validity of Export Authorization

• Each authorization issued will be valid for 1 year, regardless of financial year-end.
• Exporters must submit NABL-certified lab reports for the export consignment to demonstrate compliance with pharma-grade standards.

Eligibility Criteria at Application Stage

Applicants must ensure they meet the following eligibility conditions before applying:

• Must possess a valid Drug Manufacturing License issued by the appropriate State Licensing Authority.
• Must be a registered member of PHARMEXCIL with a valid RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate).

Grounds for Rejection

Applications will be summarily rejected if:

• They are deficient in documentation.
• They are submitted after 20th July 2025.
• They are submitted by email or post.

Discretion of DGFT

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) reserves the right to modify the distribution process or eligibility based on the number and nature of applications received.

Final Note

This initiative facilitates the export of pharma-use-specific sugar, while ensuring product quality, traceability, and fair distribution. Bonafide exporters must act within the given timeline and ensure strict compliance with documentation to avoid rejection.

Notification Reference: DGFT
Trade Notice No. 06 /2025-26
18/06/2025