This week’s CropGPT episode outlines major developments impacting the global sugar market, focusing on farmer pricing demands, production trends, regulatory enforcement, and supply chain disruptions across key producing nations.

• India: In Tamil Nadu, sugarcane farmers are pressing for a price hike to ₹5,500 per tonne, in line with recommendations from the Swaminathan Commission. Historical payment delays by mills have strained farmer finances, leading to renewed calls for reintroducing the State Advised Price and revamping cooperative mill operations. In Uttar Pradesh, improved yields and operational efficiency across 121 sugar mills—including 10 newly revived facilities—have significantly contributed to the state’s economic output.
• Philippines: Authorities are intensifying efforts against sugar smuggling following seizures worth PHP 90 million. The government is exploring blacklisting measures and tightening import regulations to protect domestic producers, with another recent PHP 5 million smuggling case underscoring persistent enforcement challenges.
• Pakistan: The government has launched a third-party audit of sugar production costs to ensure pricing transparency. Interim ex-mill price reductions aim to curb consumer burden, while new pricing frameworks are expected after audit completion.
• Brazil: Early May production data for the 2025/26 season shows a 6.8% year-on-year drop, with total annual output down 22.7%. Despite forecasts of a global surplus, regional setbacks—including drought and fire-related equipment losses—pose threats to output and may offset surplus expectations.
• Australia: Queensland's wet season has caused infrastructure damage and cane losses, particularly affecting cane rail operations. Industry groups are seeking policy improvements for disaster response and recovery, citing insufficient government relief.