China has slapped additional duties of 45% on sugar imports in a move that could impact the smaller sized bulker segments.

The world’s top sugar importer allows around 1.9mt of imports at a tariff of 15% as part of its commitment to the World Trade Organization (WTO). Imports beyond this attract a 50% levy.

Monday’s ruling will add an extra 45% duty to these imports in the current fiscal year, China's Commerce Ministry said in a statement.