India’s sugar production projected to rise 16% to 343.5 lakh tonnes in 2025-26: ISMA

India’s sugar production is projected to increase by 16 per cent to 343.5 lakh tonnes in the 2025-26 marketing year (October–September), driven largely by higher output in Maharashtra, according to estimates released by the Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA).

In the previous 2024-25 marketing year, the country’s gross sugar output stood at 296.10 lakh tonnes. The sharp rise this year is attributed to improved rainfall, better cane yields, and a larger cultivation area in key producing states.

Maharashtra, one of India’s top sugar-producing regions, is expected to see production climb from 93.51 lakh tonnes last year to 130 lakh tonnes in 2025-26, owing to both increased area under cultivation and higher productivity.

ISMA said the overall outlook for the season remains positive, with favourable weather and steady recovery rates likely to support higher production levels across the country.