Sugar production situation unclear

24-Oct-2025 08:31 PM

New Delhi. Although the new marketing season for sugarcane crushing and sugar production officially began on October 1, 2025, the pace is extremely slow in most major producing states.

The Union Food Ministry has projected a total sugar production of 34 million tons during the current marketing season 2025-26, slightly lower than the initial estimate of 34.9 million tons made by the apex industry body,

the Indian Sugar and Bioenergy Manufacturers Association (ISMA), but this figure is not currently considered definitive.

The picture will become somewhat clearer when ISMA releases its first advance production estimate in the next few days. The Food Ministry's data is based on inputs provided by various states, and may undergo some changes.

The festive season is nearing its end, while jaggery production has already begun. This is likely to ease pressure on sugar.

The industry also has low sugar stocks, while production in October is doubtful whether it will meet expectations. This could create uncertainty in the market.

The monthly sugar free sale quota for November 2025 is scheduled to be announced in the next few days. Due to a long series of festivals in October, a free sale quota of 2.4 million tons of sugar was issued, but it is likely to be reduced to normal levels in November.