New Delhi, Sept. 1 -- The Centre on Tuesday shifted the allocation of the remaining 2,02,550 tonnes of raw sugar imports under the tariff rate quota (TRQ) to a daily system, replacing the one-time allocation used for the initial quota. The move aims to boost domestic supplies amid rising sugar prices ahead of the festive season.

Average retail sugar prices have surged 37.5% to Rs.63.28 per kilogram as of 31 August from Rs.46.02 per kg a year ago, according to government data. Demand for sugar typically rises ahead of the festive season.

The shift comes as the government halves the stockholding limit for sugar dealers to 2,000 quintals from 4,000 quintals, effective 15 September through 30 November, tightening curbs on hoarding and specu...