India’s sugar production reaches 24.8M metric tonnes – ISMA

INDIA – Indian mills have produced 24.8 million metric tons of sugar so far in the 2024-25 season, according to the Indian Sugar and Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA). 

The association also reported that 95 mills remain operational across the country, with production continuing in key sugar-producing states. 

In Uttar Pradesh, sugar production has reached 87.50 lakh tonnes, with 48 mills still in operation. The improved yield of plant cane has led to increased cane availability, extending operations until mid- to late April 2025.  

ISMA noted that sugar recovery rates have improved in the latter half of the season, boosting overall output. 

Maharashtra, the second-largest sugar-producing state, has contributed 80.06 lakh tonnes so far. Out of 200 mills, only six remain operational.  

Meanwhile, Karnataka has recorded 39.55 lakh tonnes of sugar, with just two mills still running. ISMA stated that some mills in South Karnataka are expected to restart operations during the special season from June to September, potentially adding around 4 lakh tonnes to national output. 

After accounting for 35 lakh tonnes of sugar diverted for ethanol production, ISMA has revised its net sugar production estimate to 264 lakh tonnes for the season. 

Pakistan weighs raw sugar import policy 

Meanwhile, across the border, Pakistan’s government has yet to approve the import of raw sugar for re-export, despite ongoing price volatility in the domestic market.  

The decision, expected to impact sugar availability and pricing, remains under review. 

According to The News International, the government recently postponed discussions on the matter during an internal meeting. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed that the policy on raw sugar imports is still under consideration and has not yet been presented for approval. 

The delay follows previous attempts to stabilize sugar prices. Initially, authorities allowed sugar exports contingent on stable domestic pricing. However, this move led to a price surge, with rates reaching 185 rupees per kilogram during Ramadan.  

In response, the government intervened, setting a fixed price of 164 rupees per kilogram for one month. Concerns persist that prices could rise again in April. 

A draft proposal from the Ministry of Industry highlights Pakistan’s standing as the world’s seventh-largest sugar producer, with an average annual output of 6.15 million metric tons. 

The country’s 82 sugar mills primarily process domestically grown sugarcane, with sugar beet contributing just 1.16% to total production. 

Despite an increase in cultivation area, sugarcane output remains below the industry’s installed capacity. Mills are currently operating at only 60% of their 100-day crushing capacity, leaving an idle capacity of approximately 4 million metric tons per year. This presents an opportunity for refining imported raw sugar for export, though government approval remains pending. 

Over the past decade, Pakistan has exported 3.918 million metric tons of sugar, generating US$1.607 million in revenue. However, it has also had to import 0.565 billion metric tons during years of poor crop yields to meet domestic demand.  

With fluctuating annual production levels ranging from 4.818 million metric tons in 2019-20 to 7.870 million metric tons in 2021-22, sugar supply challenges persist. 

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