India's sugar production has exceeded expectations this year, with output reaching 31.59 million metric tons as of Wednesday. This figure is slightly lower than the previous year's production of 32.25 million metric tons, but it surpasses initial estimates of around 29 million metric tons.
The increase in production is attributed to a late surge in rainfall, which boosted cane yields in several key sugar-producing states. Maharashtra, the country's top sugar producer, has seen its output jump to 11 million tonnes, up from 10.53 million tonnes last year. Karnataka's production is estimated at 5.26 million tons, lower than last year's 5.8 million tons but above initial estimates.
However, Uttar Pradesh, another major sugar-producing state, has fallen short of expectations. Production in the state is estimated at around 10.4 million metric tons, lower than the projected 11.5 million tons. This shortfall is attributed to the red rot disease affecting the cane crop and the diversion of cane for the production of alternative sweeteners such as jaggery.
With the majority of sugar mills having completed crushing for the 2023/24 season, only a handful of mills remain operational. These mills are expected to contribute marginally to the overall production figures.