Destination guide · India

How to Import Brazilian Sugar into India

India is a leading source of inquiries for Brazilian sugar. Although India produces sugar domestically, its traders and refiners import Brazilian ICUMSA 45 and VHP in deficit periods, for arbitrage and for re-export. Here's how it works.

Why India imports Brazilian sugar

India's sugar balance swings with the monsoon and the crop cycle. In tighter years, and whenever Brazilian prices are competitive, Indian traders and refiners buy imported cane sugar — for domestic supply, for refining, and for onward re-export across South Asia. High inquiry volume from India reflects this active trading base.

Grade fit

Refiners take VHP raw sugar (ICUMSA 600–1200); traders, industry and retail take refined ICUMSA 45. We supply both from Brazil.

Ports & delivery

Cargo loads at Santos or Paranaguá and typically ships CFR or CIF to Indian ports such as Mundra, Kandla or Nhava Sheva (JNPT), in bulk vessels or containers.

Duties & documentation to confirm

India's import duty and any policy measures on sugar change with the domestic balance — confirm the applicable duty and licensing with your customs broker before contracting, as it drives landed cost. We provide the full export document set for clearance (certificate of origin, SGS/Intertek inspection, health/phytosanitary certificates).

Request a quotation

Duna Trading sources Brazilian ICUMSA 45 and VHP sugar and ships worldwide under Incoterms 2020, with DLC/SBLC payment (UCP 600) and SGS/Intertek inspection at loading. Tell us your grade, quantity and destination port and the São Paulo desk reverts with a quotation.

Destination guide · India

Importing into India — FAQ

Doesn't India produce its own sugar?

Yes — India is a major producer and exporter. But Indian traders and refiners still import Brazilian sugar in deficit seasons, for price arbitrage, for specific grades, and to re-export to neighbouring markets.

Which grade do Indian buyers import?

Both — VHP raw sugar as refinery feedstock, and refined ICUMSA 45 for industry, retail and re-export. We quote either.

Which ports and Incoterm are used?

Commonly CFR or CIF to ports such as Mundra, Kandla or Nhava Sheva (JNPT), with the seller arranging freight from Brazil.