Sugar was unchanged even as local demand eased, as is usual during month-end, and supplies from mills continued on Monday. Spot prices fluctuated by Rs 2-4 according to variety and demand. Disparity in the spot market discouraged stockists from placing new orders. Producers were unwilling to sell at lower rates as they expect demand to go up, traders said.

Mill tender rates rose by Rs 10-20 at the producing level, raising parity. The market is waiting for the Empowered Group of Ministers' meeting, to be held this week, that will decide on exports of 10 lakh tonnes more. Producers are optimistic the Group will allow more exports. Sugar futures were firm on expectation that additional exports will be allowed. Stockists have turned cautious as they are not sure of supplies from producers under the new quarterly quota systems.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, sugarcane was planted in 44.12 lakh hectares till April 20, as compared with 43.23 lakh hectares last year, up 89,000 hectares. Normal area for sugarcane cropping is 47.45 lakh hectares.

In Vashi, 49-50 truckloads arrived while 45-46 truckloads were despatched locally. On Saturday, 12-14 mills offered tenders and sold 58,000-60,000 bags at Rs 2,780-2,830 (Rs 2,780-2,830) for S-grade and at Rs 2,870-2,940 (Rs 2,870-2,940) for M-grade.

Bombay Sugar Merchants Association's spot rates: S-grade Rs 2,902-2,952 (Rs 2,902-2,952) and M-grade Rs 3,022-3,121 (Rs 3,022-3,121).

Naka delivery rates: S-grade Rs 2,870 -2,900 (Rs 2,870-2,900) and M-grade Rs 2,950-3,040 (Rs 2,950-3,040).