Indian sugar exports seen doubling in 07/08

BRISBANE, July 9 (Reuters) India's exports of raw sugar, which are weighing down on world markets, amounted to 1.1 million tonnes so far in the present year to September 30, Akhilesh Prasad Singh, Minister of State for Agriculture, Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution, said at an industry conference.

Singh told reporters that India's exports were expected to reach 1.5 million tonnes for the full year to September.

Exports in 2007/08 could double to 3 million tonnes, he said.

''I think it will be much bigger (next year),'' Singh told reporters on the sidelines of the World Beet and Cane Growers Conference.

Large crops in India have launched the country on o world exports markets this year. The country normally consumes its sugar domestically.

Reuters SBA DB0806