WASHINGTON, March 28 (Reuters) - Foodmakers asked the U.S. government on Wednesday for a hefty increase in the sugar import quota, saying supplies are running short because of strong domestic demand and smaller-than-expected shipments from Mexico.
The Sweetener Users Association, representing food and beverage companies, asked for immediate action on an increase that would fill sugar needs through the Sept 30, the end of this marketing year. April 1 is the first day the Agriculture Department is allowed by law to boost the import quota.