India’s 2025–26 Sugar Output to Rise 18.6%: ISMA Forecast

India’s sugar production for the 2025–26 marketing year (October–September) is projected to rise “18.58% to 30.95 million tonnes”, compared with 26.1 million tonnes in the previous year, according to the “Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA)”. The surge reflects higher output in key producing states — “Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka” — driven by better crop conditions and water availability.

Production Outlook by State

• Maharashtra: 13.0 million tonnes
• Uttar Pradesh: 10.32 million tonnes
• Karnataka: 6.35 million tonnes

The total sugarcane acreage for 2024–25 (crop year: July–June) is slightly higher at “5.735 million hectares”. Maharashtra’s cane area rose from 1.38 to 1.47 million hectares, and Karnataka’s expanded 6% to 0.68 million hectares. Uttar Pradesh saw a 3% drop to 2.257 million hectares, though crop health improved notably thanks to adequate rainfall and a higher share of plant cane.

Balance Sheet and Exports

ISMA estimates:

• Opening stocks: 5 million tonnes
• Ethanol diversion: 3.4 million tonnes
• Total availability: 35.95 million tonnes
• Domestic demand: 28.5 million tonnes

With a comfortable surplus, India could export “up to 2 million tonnes (20 lakh tonnes)” this season. ISMA has urged the government to finalise its “sugar export policy” soon to capitalise on global demand and ensure price stability.

Exam Oriented Facts

• India’s estimated 2025–26 sugar output: 30.95 million tonnes (+18.6%)
• Top producing states: Maharashtra (13 MT), Uttar Pradesh (10.32 MT), Karnataka (6.35 MT)
• Opening stock: 5 MT | Ethanol diversion: 3.4 MT
• Domestic consumption: 28.5 MT | Export potential: ~2 MT
• Total cane acreage: 5.735 million hectares
• Source: Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA)

Outlook

Favourable monsoon patterns and improved irrigation have bolstered sugarcane productivity this year. With ethanol blending targets expanding and robust domestic supply, India’s sugar sector enters 2025–26 with stronger fundamentals, positioning the country as a stable supplier in global sugar trade.