Sugar cooperatives in India face grim season, but optimism grows for next year
Poor crop health in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, which together account for 80 percent of India’s sugar output, had raised alarms
NEW DELHI, March 19, 2025 — The 2024-25 sugar season in India has been marked by uncertainty, with fluctuating production estimates and significant setbacks in key sugar-producing states. Initial industry projections placed sugar production at 333 lakh tonnes, leading the central government to permit 10 lakh tonnes of sugar exports in January 2025. However, as the season progressed, estimates were repeatedly revised downward, painting a challenging picture for the industry.
Adding to the difficulties, the Maharashtra government postponed the crushing season due to elections, while Karnataka delayed crushing until mid-November. Had these states commenced crushing earlier, the situation might have been even more severe.
Despite the current crisis, optimism is building for the 2025-26 season. According to NFCSF Managing Director Prakash Naiknaware, satisfactory rainfall in 2024 has led to large-scale new sugarcane plantations. Additionally, improved water levels in reservoirs will support ratoon crops in the latter half of the next season.
Weather agencies, including India’s Meteorological Department, Australia, Europe, and the U.S., have predicted normal rainfall in 2025, further fueling hopes of a production rebound.
“If the weather remains favorable, sugarcane availability will improve significantly, leading to a strong recovery in 2025-26 and possibly extending into 2026-27,” Naiknaware added. While the industry grapples with short-term hardships, a brighter future may be just around the corner.
Source: Indian Cooperative
https://thecooperator.news/ugandas-sugar-exports-to-kenya-drop-as-rwanda-leads-in-eac/
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