What Are India's Sugar Exports in 2024-25?
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Synopsis
India's sugar exports have reached a remarkable 7.75 lakh tonnes in the 2024-25 marketing season. Discover the key destinations, production forecasts, and the implications for local farmers and the economy.
Key Takeaways
- India exported 7.75 lakh tonnes of sugar in 2024-25.
- Major export destinations include Djibouti, Somalia, and Sri Lanka.
- The government allowed exports on January 20, 2025.
- Exports aim to support local sugar prices.
- A record 4.8 billion litres of ethanol production is anticipated.
New Delhi, Oct 12 (NationPress) India has successfully exported 7.75 lakh tonnes of sugar during the 2024-25 marketing season, covering the period from October 2024 to September 2025, as per a recent statement from the All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA) on Sunday.
The leading destinations for India’s sugar exports included Djibouti at 1.46 lakh tonnes, followed closely by Somalia with 1.35 lakh tonnes, while Sri Lanka claimed the third position with 1.34 lakh tonnes. Afghanistan followed with shipments totaling 75,533 tonnes.
The Indian government permitted sugar exports for the 2024-25 marketing season on January 20, 2025, allowing a total of 10 lakh tonnes for export.
According to AISTA, out of the total 7.75 lakh tonnes exported from February to September this year, 6.13 lakh tonnes were white sugar, 1.04 lakh tonnes were refined sugar, and 33,338 tonnes were raw sugar.
Approximately 21,000 tonnes of raw sugar were categorized as deemed exports as they were supplied to the SEZ.
AISTA has urged the government to permit sugar exports for the 2025-26 sugar marketing year and to announce the export quota by November 2025, as stated in their recent announcement.
The trade body has also requested that the government maintain the same export quota policy for allocation and exchange among mills as was implemented in the 2024-25 sugar marketing year.
As the world’s second-largest sugar producer, India is projected to have ample surplus stocks to facilitate exports for the upcoming season starting October 1, according to a senior government official.
These exports aim to assist the Indian government in stabilizing local sugar prices and ensuring farmers receive timely payments for their cane from sugar mills.
According to Ashwini Srivastava, Joint Secretary of the Department of Food and Public Distribution, the outlook for next season’s production appears promising, indicating that there will be sufficient stocks available for export after fulfilling domestic consumption and ethanol production needs.
It is anticipated that a record 4.8 billion litres of ethanol will be produced in the new season from sugarcane-based materials.
Furthermore, the nation’s sugar consumption for the new season is projected to increase to between 28.5 million and 29 million metric tons, up from 28 million in the current year, as noted by Srivastava.
Point of View
It’s crucial to recognize India’s significant role in the global sugar market. The recent export figures not only highlight the country's agricultural capabilities but also emphasize the importance of supporting local farmers and maintaining price stability. The government’s proactive approach towards exports is commendable and essential for sustaining the agricultural economy.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total amount of sugar India exported in 2024-25?
India exported a total of 7.75 lakh tonnes of sugar during the 2024-25 marketing season.
Which countries were the main destinations for sugar exports?
The primary destinations for India's sugar exports included Djibouti, Somalia, and Sri Lanka.
When did the Indian government allow sugar exports for the 2024-25 season?
The government permitted sugar exports on January 20, 2025.
What are the expectations for next season's sugar production?
Next season's sugar output is expected to be robust, with sufficient stocks available for export after domestic needs are met.
How does sugar export benefit Indian farmers?
Exporting sugar helps stabilize local prices and ensures that farmers receive timely payments for their cane from sugar mills.
