Bitter row between north, south sugar mills over imports.

Sugar mills in drought affected Tamil Nadu have demanded tariff-rate quota (TRQ) import of 6 lakh tonne of raw sugar at zero import duty to help minimize losses. The Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA), has been opposing imports, claiming that the country has enough stock of the sweetener. However, South Indian Sugar Mills Association, Tamil Nadu (SISMA-TONNE) has approached the central government, requesting it to allow sugar import. Officials aware of the matter told ET that the government is reviewing the situation and may accept their demand, as it not only helps keep sugar prices in southern India under control but also enable sugar mills clear cane farmers dues.