ARTICLE 2 #India Agri News

In Jalgaon district, all three sugar factories have shut down. As a result, farmers who were growing sugarcane have switched to maize.

Despite a sharp drop in molasses prices, all sugar factories in Indonesia continue to operate without disruption, Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman confirmed on Friday. Speaking at a press briefing in Jakarta following a meeting with the Lampung Provincial Government and representatives of farmer associations, Minister Sulaiman dismissed concerns over a potential halt in sugar production.

soybean, and milk. It points out that duties on US imports are high (e.g. 45% on corn, 50‑60% on soybean & skimmed milk powder). Also highlights cultural concerns (e.g. how cows are fed in US dairy, etc.) and sensitivity around genetically modified (GM) crops.

The global palm sugar market is poised for steady growth over the forecast period 2025-2032, with market valuation expected to increase from US$ 2,197.40 million in 2025 to approximately US$ 2,776.90 million by 2032, representing a value-based CAGR of 3.4%. This growth is driven by rising consumer awareness regarding natural sweeteners, a shift towards healthier dietary alternatives, and increasing demand from the food and beverage industry, particularly in confectionery, bakery, and ready-to-eat segments.

Global sugar markets have been locked in a tight trading band over the past few weeks, as international sugar prices hover around 16 to 17 cents per pound. With few immediate catalysts, traders and analysts say this range may persist — unless something shifts the balance.

Recently, areas across several states in India have faced heavy floods following relentless rains and overflowing rivers. The government has responded by launching official damage assessment drives, particularly focusing on paddy and maize — two staple crops crucial to many farmers.

Recently, Kurt Shultz, Senior Director of Global Strategies at the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC), visited India to generate interest among end-users in purchasing U.S. distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS), a byproduct of ethanol production, which currently do not have market access in the country but could become a major source of demand for U.S. producers, according to the press release.

Bidders are required to submit ethanol supply quantities in kilolitres (KL), categorized by feedstock and specified on a quarterly basis.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick criticized India’s trade barriers, asking rhetorically: “Why won’t 1.4 billion people buy one bushel of U.S. corn?” India imposes a 15% tariff on maize imports up to 0.5 million tonnes; beyond that, a high 50% duty kicks in.

The Food Ministry has allocated a domestic sugar quota of 24 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) for October 2025, starting from October 1. This is lower than the 25.5 LMT quota allocated for October 2024, though higher than September 2025’s quota of 23.5 LMT. Market watchers expect firm demand (especially with upcoming festivals) and foresee a price rise of ₹40‑50 per quintal in many regions.