India, the world’s largest consumer and the second-largest producer of sugar, has accomplished a noteworthy achievement by being appointed as the Chair of the International Sugar Organisation (ISO) for the year 2024.
As outlined in a press release from the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, this declaration was made at the 63rd council meeting of the ISO in London, underscoring India’s rising prominence in the worldwide sugar industry.
Sanjeev Chopra, Secretary (Food) of the Government of India, expressed India’s commitment to spearheading sustainable practices in sugarcane cultivation, sugar, and ethanol production, and maximizing the utilization of by-products.
With a substantial 15 percent share in global sugar consumption and a noteworthy contribution of 20 percent to global sugar production, India’s influence on global sugar trends is undeniable, as highlighted in the press release.
Being the largest consumer and the second-largest producer of sugar, the country is well-suited to assume leadership of the International Sugar Organisation, the premier international body for sugar-related products, boasting a membership of approximately 90 countries.
As Brazil takes the lead in the Western Hemisphere, India, positioned as the market leader in the Eastern Hemisphere, assumes a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of the global sugar market.
Moreover, the press release emphasized that India’s rise to become the world’s third-largest ethanol producer highlights its dedication to green energy and its efforts to tackle issues associated with excess sugar in the domestic market.
India’s proactive stance on green energy is apparent in the notable surge in ethanol blending, reaching 12 percent in the fiscal year 2022-23, a significant jump from 5 percent in 2019-20.
This aligns with the country’s efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports and contribute to meeting COP 26 targets. Ethanol production has surged from 173 crore litres to over 500 crore litres during the same period.
The Indian sugar industry has showcased resilience and adaptability, evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. Operating mills during lockdowns and contributing to the country’s demand for hand sanitisers, the industry has proven its robustness.
Importantly, India has become the payer of the highest cane price to its farmers while maintaining efficiency, profitability, and self-sufficiency without relying on government financial assistance.
The sugar industry’s synergy with the government has resulted in a historic low in cane dues pendency. More than 98 per cent of cane dues for the 2022-23 season have been cleared, and over 99.9 per cent of cane dues from previous seasons have been settled, stated the press release.
This reflects the industry’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of farmers.
India has set a benchmark in keeping domestic sugar retail prices consistent and stable, limiting the increase to just 5 per cent, despite a global surge of about 40 per cent in one year, read the press release.
This consumer-centric approach has positioned India as a responsible player in the global sugar market.
On the technical front, the National Sugar Institute in Kanpur has extended its collaboration with several countries, including Indonesia, Nigeria, Egypt, and Fiji, read the release.
This collaboration aims to share the latest technologies and best practices in the sugar sector, showcasing India’s commitment to fostering international cooperation.
As India assumes the Chair of the International Sugar Organisation for 2024, the nation is poised to lead the global sugar industry toward sustainable practices, collaborative innovation, and responsible growth, further solidifying its standing as a key player in the international arena.
