India’s Sugar Output Set to Jump 18.6% in 2025–26, Likely to Surpass Domestic Demand: ISMA

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The Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) said opening stocks stood at 5 million tonnes, while ethanol diversion is estimated at around 3.4 million tonnes for the current year

New Delhi :
India is projected to record a strong rebound in sugar production during the 2025–26 sugar marketing year (October–September), with output estimated at 30.95 million tonnes, an 18.58% increase from last year’s 26.1 million tonnes, according to the Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA).

ISMA’s first advance estimates indicate opening sugar stocks of 5 million tonnes, while ethanol diversion a key part of India’s biofuel strategy is expected to be around 3.4 million tonnes this season.

Total Sugar Availability to Reach Nearly 36 Million Tonnes

With higher production and carry-forward stocks, total sugar availability for 2025–26 is likely to reach 35.95 million tonnes, comfortably exceeding the domestic consumption requirement of 28.5 million tonnes.

This favourable supply position strengthens the possibility of exporting nearly 20 lakh tonnes of sugar, ISMA said, urging the Centre to announce an export policy soon.

Higher Output Driven by Key Producing States

The sharp rise in sugar production is expected on the back of better yields in the country’s top three sugar-producing states:

• Maharashtra: 13.00 million tonnes
• Uttar Pradesh: 10.32 million tonnes
• Karnataka: 6.35 million tonnes

Collectively, these states account for the bulk of India’s sugar output and have shown improved crop performance this season.

Sugarcane Acreage Trends for 2024–25

Total sugarcane acreage for the 2024–25 crop year (July–June) is estimated at 5.735 million hectares, slightly higher than last year.
Key state-wise updates include:

• Maharashtra: Cane area increased to 1.47 million hectares (up from 1.38 million ha)
• Karnataka: Acreage expanded by 6%, reaching 680,000 hectares
• Uttar Pradesh: Acreage declined 3% to 2.257 million hectares, although field conditions have improved due to better water availability and a higher share of plant cane

ISMA noted that overall crop health is significantly better this year, supported by adequate irrigation and favourable growing conditions.

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Farming Farming Efficiency Sugar Cane sugar output in India Sugar Production