The Senegalese government has announced the opening of the sugar import market starting July 15, 2026, to prevent shortages and ensure the country’s supply in the lead-up to major religious holidays.
The government reaffirmed its support for local production.
In a statement released Monday, the Ministry of Industry and Trade denied reports of imports already authorised. It clarified that no sugar or DIPA imports have been approved since December 15, 2025, in order to keep the market open to production by the Senegalese Sugar Company (CSS).
The ministry explained, however, that the decline in CSS’s stocks necessitates opening the market to supplement domestic supply.
The company produces approximately 140,000 tonnes of sugar per year, while the country’s consumption averages 25,000 tonnes per month, with a significant increase during the Magal and Gamou celebrations.
The authorities also point out that the needs of the months of August to November are traditionally met, in part, by imports intended to supplement local production.
According to the ministry, this opening, scheduled to begin on July 15, has the sole objective of securing supply, ensuring the continuity of distribution, and preserving price stability on the domestic market.
The government emphasises that this measure does not call into question its import-substitution policy.
It reaffirms its commitment to supporting the national sugar sector while protecting consumers’ purchasing power.
Finally, the ministry calls on the CSS (Sugar Company) and other stakeholders in the sector to continue their collaboration with public authorities in order to optimise supply chains.
It warns that the state will remain firm in the face of any attempt to disrupt the market or challenge decisions made in the public interest.
TE/Sf/fss/as/APA