India's Sugar Supply To Remain Stable In 2024-25: ISMA

(MENAFN- KNN India) New Delhi, Mar 20 (KNN) The Indian Sugar and Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has confirmed that sugar availability will remain stable and sufficient for the ongoing 2024-25 marketing season, addressing concerns about potential shortages in the domestic market.

According to a statement released on Tuesday, ISMA projects that India will maintain adequate sugar reserves with an estimated closing stock of 54 lakh tonnes by September 2025, which will comfortably meet domestic demand requirements.

Production data as of March 15, 2025, indicates that India has manufactured approximately 238 lakh tonnes of sugar thus far in the season, with about 200 sugar mills-representing 38 percent of total facilities-continuing operations.

In Uttar Pradesh, nearly 75 percent of factories remain operational, with improved cane recovery rates expected to extend the crushing season through April.

Although Maharashtra and Karnataka have experienced lower cane yields, ISMA reports that select mills in Karnataka are scheduled to resume operations during a special season in June/July 2025, with Tamil Nadu mills also set to operate during this period.

Following a comprehensive review conducted by ISMA's Executive Committee on March 12, 2025, the association revised its net sugar production estimate to 264 lakh tonnes after accounting for the diversion of 35 lakh tonnes for ethanol production.

Despite reduced output in certain regions, ISMA has assured stakeholders that sugar availability will sufficiently meet domestic consumption requirements without disruption.

The industry body has expressed optimism regarding the upcoming 2025-26 season, citing favorable weather conditions and improved planting activities.

"The 2024 monsoon has enhanced cane planting, particularly in Maharashtra and Karnataka, setting the stage for an on-time start of the crushing season in October 2025," ISMA stated in its release.

ISMA has also highlighted the positive impact of the government's recent sugar export policy on the industry.

After restricting sugar exports in the 2023-24 season to maintain domestic price stability, the central government authorised sugar producers to export 1 million tonnes of sweetener on January 21 this year.

The association noted that this policy change has "significantly benefited the industry" by helping balance domestic sugar stocks while providing financial stability to mill operators.

The timely exports have enabled mills to make prompt cane payments, benefiting 5.5 crore farmers and their families.

(KNN Bureau)

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