The Indian government may be considering tariffs of up to 80% on sugar imports (from 50% currently) to protect domestic industry ahead of a booming harvest. That follows recently launched protectionist moves in industries ranging from solar power to consumer electronics. That casts some doubt on the government willingness to take part in tariff-cutting free trade deals such as RCEP and BTIA. Indian imports of sugar climbed 5% to $1.3 billion in the year-to-date through November 30, led by Brazilian sugar cane (90% of the total) and lactose syrups from the U.S. and Germany.