Sugar prices ruled flat across the country on routine demand and supply.

On the Vashi wholesale market, spot and naka rates ruled unchanged as local demand was subdued. Mills continued selling as they need cash.

A Vashi-based wholesaler said that retail demand has been lacking after Diwali, while supply from producers continues to be normal.

Demand from upcountry is still missing at upper-mill level considering the parity with other producing States.

Maharashtra mills are forced to offload sugar in local markets. Even the dispute between farmers and producers over sugarcane price and delay in crushing have not lifted prices due to surplus stocks. .

Arrivals in Vashi market declined to 59-60 truckloads (of 100 bags each) while local dispatches were 57-58 truckloads.

On Monday evening, about 15-16 mills offered and sold 42,000-45,000 bags at Rs 2,710-2,830 (Rs 2,710-2,830) for S-grade and Rs 2,860-3,000 (Rs 2,860-3,000) for M-grade.

The Bombay Sugar Merchants Association's spot rates were: S-grade Rs 2,880-2,995 (Rs 2,880-2,996) and M-grade Rs 3,012-3,232 (Rs 3,012-3,232).

Naka delivery rates were: S-grade Rs 2,825-2,900 (Rs 2,825-2,900) and M-grade Rs 2,890-3,110 (Rs 2,990-3,110).

Uttar Pradesh rates were: Muzzafarnagar Rs 3,225.