The Indian Sugar and Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has confirmed that India will have sufficient sugar availability to meet domestic demand during the 2024-25 marketing season, which runs from October to September. The association projected a closing stock of 54 lakh tonnes by September 2025, ensuring stable supply despite regional fluctuations in production.
As of March 15, 2025, India had produced approximately 238 lakh tonnes of sugar, with around 200 mills — 38% of the total — still operational. In Uttar Pradesh, nearly 75% of factories continue to operate, and improved cane recovery is expected to extend the crushing season until April.
While Maharashtra and Karnataka experienced lower cane yields, ISMA indicated that some mills in Karnataka are likely to resume operations during a special season in June/July 2025. Mills in Tamil Nadu are also set to operate during this period.
Following a review by ISMA’s Executive Committee on March 12, 2025, the net sugar production estimate was revised to 264 lakh tonnes after diverting 35 lakh tonnes for ethanol production. The association stated that despite reduced output in some regions, sugar availability will comfortably meet domestic demand.
ISMA expressed optimism for the 2025-26 season, supported by favourable weather conditions and improved planting. The association highlighted that the 2024 monsoon has enhanced cane planting, particularly in Maharashtra and Karnataka, ensuring an on-time start for the crushing season in October 2025.
The association also acknowledged the government’s recent sugar export policy as a positive step for the industry. After restricting sugar exports in the 2023-24 season, the central government allowed the export of 1 million tonnes of sugar on January 21, 2025. ISMA noted that this policy has significantly benefited the industry by balancing domestic stocks and improving financial stability for millers. The timely exports have enabled mills to make prompt cane payments, benefiting 5.5 crore farmers and their families.