Uttar Pradesh may spoil India’s sugar party in 2026-27 season
The northern State’s production may remain stagnant at 9 million tonnes on lower coverage and earlier start to the crushing season
Uttar Pradesh's sugar production is expected to remain steady at around 9 million tonnes for the 2026-27 season, despite an anticipated 10 per cent boost in sugarcane yields across its western belt. Lower cane acreage and an earlier start to the crushing season are expected to offset any gains in yield. Sources indicate that the state's cane acreage may be 1-2 lakh hectares lower than previous years, while government data show a 36,000 hectares increase.
The Union Agriculture Ministry's data reveals that the state has 36,000 hectares more cane acreage compared to the previous year. The current sugar season began in October 2025, with industry projections initially pegging output at 10.25 million tonnes in Uttar Pradesh from an estimated area of 22.57 lakh hectares. However, production in the state reportedly ended at 8.95 million tonnes.
Industry sources highlight that there is usually a gap between government and private sector estimates of cane area. Despite a reported good crop condition and no pest attacks, there is uncertainty regarding any damage caused by recent floods in some 24 districts of Uttar Pradesh.
Written by urgent.news from Hindu BusinessLine's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
