ISMA projects 333 lakh tons gross sugar production for 2024-25 season

The Indian Sugar Mills & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has projected a gross sugar production of about 333 lakh tons for the 2024-25 sugar season. This estimate is based on satellite images obtained in late June 2024, which indicate a total sugarcane acreage of approximately 56.1 lakh hectares.

During a meeting on July 30, 2024, representatives from sugar-producing states reviewed various factors influencing sugar production, including satellite imagery, expected yields, sugar recovery rates, and the effects of rainfall and water availability.

State wise production

Uttar Pradesh: The condition of standing cane is reported to be robust. Additionally, the diversion of cane to jaggery and khandsari units is expected to be lower than last year, which should positively impact sugar production.

Maharashtra and Karnataka: Both states have seen a reduction in cane area—by about 13 percent and 8 percent, respectively—due to deficient rainfall last year. However, with current rainfall approximately 30 percent above normal, cane productivity and sugar recovery are anticipated to improve, resulting in only a minimal decline of 3-5 percent in gross sugar production.

Other States: Minor changes in cane area and production are expected, with overall stability anticipated.

Projected sugar balance for 2024-25 sugar season

ISMA projects that the 2024-25 season will commence with an opening stock of 90.5 lakh tons and a gross production of 333 lakh tons, totaling 423.5 lakh tons of sugar. With an anticipated internal consumption of 290 lakh tons, the season is expected to end with a closing stock of 133.5 lakh tons. The surplus of 78.5 lakh tons above the normative requirement will support domestic needs, ethanol blending, and exports, thereby ensuring market stability.

This excess stock is projected to be adequate to sustain both the Ethanol Blending Program and current export demands, maintaining a balanced sugar market throughout the season.