The government allowed duty free import of refined sugar up to 31st December this year in the wake of its rising prices. 5.4 million tonnes of raw sugar will also be imported to bridge the gap between the demand and supply. The Cabinet Committee on Prices, CCP, also decided to permit UP mills to process imported raw sugar outside the state due to restrictions there. Briefing reporters after the meeting, Food and Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar said several state governments who have not removed VAT and other taxes so far, have been asked to do so to bring down the prices of sugar. AIR correspondent reports that Mr. Pawar exuded confidence that the decisions taken will help bring sugar prices down in 8 to 10 days.