India has approved the export of up to 25,000 tonnes of pharma-grade sugar per financial year, starting June 18, 2025. The move is aimed at supporting bona fide pharmaceutical exporters and enhancing the country’s global trade reach. The export will be allowed under the restricted category, requiring special permissions. Additionally, the Trade Connect ePlatform has introduced a ‘Source from India’ option to boost connectivity between global trade stakeholders and Indian suppliers.
The Government of India has approved the annual export of up to 25,000 tonnes of pharma-grade sugar under the restricted category, providing a boost to India’s pharmaceutical exporters. The policy was announced by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), which oversees India’s foreign trade regulations.
This decision applies exclusively to bona fide pharmaceutical exporters, who rely on pharma-grade sugar as a key ingredient in manufacturing various medicinal products, including syrups and tablets. The export quota is set for each financial year and aims to balance domestic availability while promoting India’s growing role in the global pharmaceutical supply chain.
Pharma-grade sugar differs from regular consumption sugar as it adheres to stringent purity standards essential for medical formulations. Exporters will need to obtain necessary authorisations under India’s restricted export category to ship the approved quota.
The policy comes at a time when India is positioning itself as a global pharmaceutical hub, supporting both Make in India and export-led growth. In addition, the Trade Connect ePlatform—an initiative to facilitate international trade connections—has introduced a new feature titled ‘Source from India’. This feature will help foreign buyers connect directly with verified Indian exporters, including those in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors.
This strategic export approval aligns with the Centre’s efforts to strengthen international trade ties and provide export incentives to sectors that contribute significantly to India’s GDP.
The DGFT is expected to release further operational guidelines on how pharmaceutical exporters can apply for and avail the quota over the coming weeks.
