New Delhi: There is news of relief for the people troubled by expensive sugar. According to the Central Government, a downward trend is now visible in the prices of sugar. In recent times, there has been a decline of about 20 percent in mill level prices and this is expected to impact the retail market in the coming times.

Sales system will change from September

The government is going to implement a new system from September to stop artificial shortage and hoarding. Now sugar mills will be given quota for sale on fortnightly basis instead of monthly. With this, the availability of sugar in the market can be better monitored. Under the new system, mills will have to send fixed quantity of sugar to the market on time. The government has also clarified that supply will have to be ensured within seven days after the sale.

Government's eye on hoarding

Food Ministry's investigation had revealed irregularities in the stock and sales of some mills. The government believes that hoarding and speculation were also a major reason behind the rise in market prices. The government has clearly said that there is no shortage of sugar in the country and people do not need to buy more than necessary.

More relief may be available in future

The government has also taken steps to control storage of bulk buyers along with allowing import of raw sugar to keep domestic supply strong. Production is expected to increase after the start of the new crushing season. In such a situation, there is a possibility of adequate availability of sugar in the coming months and further relief in retail prices.