Indian sugar industry got sweeter

India is gearing up to take charge of the International Sugar Organisation (ISO) in 2024, marking a huge accomplishment for the nation.

India, being the biggest sugar consumer and the second-largest producer globally, is stepping into a leadership role. The announcement was made at the 63rd council meeting of the ISO in London, shining a spotlight on India's growing influence in the sugar world.

Sanjeev Chopra, the Secretary (Food) of the Government of India, made it clear that India is all about championing eco-friendly practices in growing sugarcane, making sugar, and producing ethanol while making the most out of by-products. With a massive 15% share in global sugar consumption and a hefty 20% contribution to global sugar production, India is a major player in shaping how the world looks at sugar.

Now, imagine this – India, leading the ISO, an international big shot in all things sugar, with around 90 countries on board. While Brazil rules the sugar scene in the Western Hemisphere, India is the go-to in the Eastern Hemisphere, playing a pivotal role in shaping the global sugar market.

But that's not all. India has also climbed to become the third-largest ethanol producer globally, showing its dedication to green energy. This move helps tackle the challenge of having too much sugar in the domestic market. Ethanol blending in India has shot up to 12% in the financial year 2022-23, a significant leap from 5% in 2019-20. This aligns perfectly with India's goal to cut down on fossil fuel imports and meet COP 26 targets.

Even during the wild ride of the COVID-19 pandemic, India's sugar industry stood strong. Mills kept running during lockdowns, and they even chipped in to make hand sanitizers. Talk about adapting on the fly! India takes the crown for paying its farmers the highest cane price, all while staying efficient, profitable, and self-sufficient – no government financial aid needed.

Hold on, there's more. India has cracked the code on keeping cane dues at historic lows. Over 98% of cane dues for the 2022-23 season are cleared, and a whopping 99.9% of dues from previous seasons are settled. India isn't just about the numbers; it's about prioritizing farmers. Despite a global sugar price surge of about 40% in a year, India has kept domestic sugar retail prices steady.

On the tech side of things, the National Sugar Institute in Kanpur is making friends worldwide. Collaborations with countries like Indonesia, Nigeria, Egypt, and Fiji are happening to swap the latest sugar tech and best practices. It's like a sugar science club, and India is leading the way!

So, as India steps into the spotlight as the head of the International Sugar Organisation in 2024, get ready for a sweet journey. India is all set to guide the global sugar industry toward eco-friendly practices, teamwork, and responsible growth. It's not just a big player in sugar – it's a global game-changer!

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