India's Sugar Production Surges Amidst Challenges

India's sugar production has increased by 7.32% to 27.52 million tonnes in the 2025-26 marketing season, largely driven by Maharashtra and Karnataka. Despite the growth, challenges such as rising costs and ethanol blending targets remain. The industry is pressing for policy changes to support sustainability and growth.

India's sugar production recorded a notable increase of 7.32%, reaching 27.52 million tonnes in the 2025-26 marketing season, as reported by the Indian Sugar and Bio-energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) on Thursday.

This growth is largely attributed to the higher output from major sugar-producing states like Maharashtra and Karnataka. However, Uttar Pradesh's production saw a decline compared to the previous year.

Despite the boost in production, the sugar industry faces several challenges, including mounting production costs and the need for policy reforms to promote ethanol blending and improve financial sustainability. The industry urged the government to revise minimum selling prices and accelerate ethanol targets.