Earlier, it was predicted that the state’s sugar production would drop due to a substantial decrease in the recovery rate of sugarcane caused by unequal rainfall and climate change
Sugar production in Maharashtra is expected to drop by over 11% this year due to unseasonal rain, dry spells, and forecasted less-than-average rainfall. This could lead to a rise in the retail rate of sugar. The area under sugarcane cultivation is expected to remain at 14.37 lakh hectares, with an expected production of 94 lakh metric tonnes. The recovery rate is expected to be 10%, lower than the average rate of 11.25%. The drop in production may lead to government intervention to restrict exports and stem a rise in retail prices.
Maharashtra's sugar production for 2022-23 decreased by 320 lakh quintals compared to last year due to unseasonal rains, old seed, and less sugar generation from per tonnes of sugarcane. At least 210 sugar mills produced 1,053.17 lakh quintals of sugar, with an average sugar production of 10%.
Maharashtra's sugar production has dropped by 17.4% due to a substantial decrease in the recovery rate of sugarcane caused by unequal rainfall and climate change. This could result in a rise in retail prices. After the recent conclusion of the crushing season, sugar production in the state was reported at 1,053 lakh quintals in 2022-23 compared to 1,275.3 lakh quintal in 2021-22. The government incentives for converting sugar to ethanol have further led to a drop in sugar production. Experts predict that retail prices of sugar may increase by INR1 to INR2 per kg.