Sugarcane crushing season to end early due to low yield
India’s 2025 sugarcane crushing season is expected to end early due to lower crop availability and damage. Sugar production is projected at 270 lakh tonnes, 49 lakh tonnes less than last year. Delays in crushing, particularly in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat, along with reduced sugar recovery, are contributing to a tighter market, potentially boosting sugar prices.
New Delhi: This year’s sugarcane crushing season is expected to conclude earlier than usual due to lower availability and crop damage. According to the National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories, sugar production in India is likely to be 270 lakh tonnes—49 lakh tonnes less than last year, reports Agrowon.
The delayed start of the crushing season, especially in Maharashtra due to elections, and similar delays in Karnataka and Gujarat, have impacted overall production. As of January 31, 2025, 494 sugar mills were operational, compared to 517 last year. Total crushed sugarcane stands at 1,855 lakh tonnes, down from 1,931 lakh tonnes last year.
Sugar recovery is also lower at 8.91%, compared to 9.70% in the previous season. With a portion of sugar being diverted to ethanol production and exports, stock levels are expected to be minimal by the season’s end, which could positively impact sugar prices.
Climate fluctuations, including excessive rainfall and late monsoons, have caused premature flowering in Maharashtra and Karnataka, limiting sugarcane growth and sugar content. This is likely to shorten the crushing season in these states.
NFCSF President Harshvardhan Patil noted that the government’s approval for exporting 10 lakh tonnes of sugar and revised ethanol procurement prices would help sustain the sugar industry. He also emphasized the need for a decision on the minimum selling price of sugar.
State-wise Sugar Production Estimates (Previous Estimates in Brackets):
Uttar Pradesh – 93 lakh tonnes (98 lakh tonnes)
Maharashtra – 86 lakh tonnes (87 lakh tonnes)
Karnataka – 41 lakh tonnes (45 lakh tonnes)
Other States – 50 lakh tonnes (50 lakh tonnes)
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Source : Chinimandi
