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With 45.54 Million Tons, Brazil Stands Out as the Largest Sugar Producer in the World for the 2023/24 Cycle, Representing 25% of All Global Production of the Commodity.
The global sugar agribusiness has shown consistent growth in recent years. In the 2023/24 cycle, total production reached 183.5 million tons, with a 3% increase between 2014 and 2023. Brazil, once again, has taken the lead in this market and remains the largest sugar producer in the world.
The country produced 45.54 million tons of sugar in the most recent harvest. This represents a growth of 20% compared to the 2022 volume, when 38 million tons were recorded.
Brazil’s share in the global market reached 25%, consolidating its strength as a powerhouse in the sugar and alcohol sector.
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Ethanol and Sugar Compete for Space in Brazilian Sugarcane
Sugarcane production in Brazil is versatile. A large portion of the raw material is destined for sugar production, but there is a natural competition with ethanol.
The choice between one or the other option depends on the commercial attractiveness of the moment.
While sugar competes for prominence with the biofuel, the scenario is different in the United States.
There, ethanol is primarily produced from corn, demonstrating the strategic differences between the main players in the sector.
India Remains the Second Largest Sugar Producer on the Planet
Right after Brazil, India appears as the second largest global producer, with 34 million tons in 2023.
However, the Asian country experienced a decline in production, with an 8% drop compared to the 37 million tons recorded in 2022.
Even with this setback, Indian production grew by 11% over the last decade. Currently, the country holds a 19% share of global sugar volume.
European Union and China Hold Notable Positions in the Global Ranking
The European Union ranks third in global sugar production, with 14.99 million tons.
Between 2022 and 2023, the countries in the European bloc increased production by 7%. However, the long-term performance has been negative: a 19% decline since 2014, with a current share of 8%.
China, the fourth-ranked country, produced 9.9 million tons in 2023. This number represents a slight increase of 1% compared to the previous year.
However, the country experienced a 10% decline compared to 2014, currently accounting for 5% of the global total.
Thailand, United States, and Pakistan Complete the Top Ranks in the Ranking
Thailand ranked fifth, with a production of 8.8 million tons in the current cycle.
The Asian nation accounts for 5% of global sugar, although it faced a 19% decline over the last ten years.
Following closely are the United States, with 8.28 million tons. The country also represents 5% of global production, maintaining stability in recent cycles.
Pakistan occupies the seventh position, with 6.66 million tons and a share of 4%. In eighth place is Russia, with 6.6 million tons and the same 4% participation.
Mexico and Australia Complete the List of the Ten Largest Sugar Producers in the World
Mexico ranks as the ninth largest sugar producer, with 4.93 million tons.
Australia rounds out the top 10 with 4.1 million tons. These countries account for 3% and 2% of global production, respectively.
Together, the ten largest sugar producers on the planet account for 44% of the total volume produced globally.
Brazilian prominence stands out in this scenario, showcasing the country’s strength in agribusiness and its strategic importance in supplying the commodity to the world.
