The global sugar market size 178.15 MMT in 2025. The industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 1.30% during the forecast period of 2026-2035. By 2035, the market is expected to reach a volume of 202.71 MMT.
Government biofuel mandates and evolving energy market trends are shaping decisions in the sugar industry, particularly in countries where sugarcane is a key feedstock for ethanol production. Brazil and India are largely implementing ethanol blending programs. In October 2024, India accelerated its ethanol blending targets with a 20% ethanol-petrol blending by 2025. These policies are incentivizing producers to divert sugarcane from sugar production to ethanol when fuel prices are high or blending mandates are increased.
Packaging innovations are boosting the sugar market dynamics for improving product freshness, convenience, and sustainability. Advanced packaging materials and recyclable plastics are limiting environmental impacts, appealing to eco-conscious consumers. In June 2024, prominent French sugar brand Cristalco transitioned its 500g Daddy Sugar icing sugar container from plastic to a fully recyclable Sonoco cardboard design. These innovations are enhancing brand differentiation and shelf appeal, allowing companies to attract new customers and enter niche markets.
Base Year
Historical Period
Forecast Period
Sugarcane is the world’s largest source of sugar, producing about 80% of the global supply.
In 2022, global production of sugar reached 178.930 million tonnes, a year-on-year surge of 13.818 million tonnes.
As per the Indian Sugar and Bioenergy Manufacturers’ Association, sugar production in India is estimated to reduce to 33.3 million tonnes in 2024-25, a y-o-y decline of 2.24%.
Compound Annual Growth Rate
1.3%
Value in MMT
2026-2035
*this image is indicative*
Innovations in sugarcane cultivation, such as drip irrigation, pest-resistant varieties, and mechanized harvesting for improving yields and reducing input costs is driving the sugar market expansion. Brazil and Australia are leading in precision agriculture, using satellite data, AI, and GPS-guided machinery to optimize planting and harvesting. In November 2024, Brazil’s Centro de Tecnologia Canavieira launched its innovative cane seed project to revolutionize sugarcane cultivation. These advances are helping to mitigate climate-related risks and labour shortages, especially in regions where sugarcane labour is intensive.
The environmental, social, and governance criteria are increasingly reinforcing the sugar industry growth. Consumers and investors are demanding ethically sourced, low-carbon sugar, driving innovations in production. In April 2025, SEDL launched India's first boiler less, zero emission sugarcane-processing platform near Guwahati. Certification schemes are growing, with major companies committing to 100% sustainable sourcing. Water usage, land degradation, and labour practices are also under scrutiny, especially in developing nations.
Africa is emerging as a significant contributor to sugar consumption and production, adding to the sugar market dynamics. Rising urban populations, improving incomes, and changing diets are driving the demand. Ethiopia, Kenya, and Nigeria are investing in sugar infrastructure to reduce imports and develop local industries. In March 2025, Zimbabwe-based agri-processing firm Tongaat Hulett invested R460 million in off-season maintenance to prepare for the 2025/26 sugar season. International firms are also eyeing Africa as a frontier market with long-term potential, both for sugar exports and as a production base.
The positive export scenario is contributing to the sugar market by boosting demand and stabilizing prices globally. Rising production in Brazil, India, China and Thailand is increasing sugar shipments abroad, further helping to balance supply-demand gaps in importing countries, often offsetting domestic shortfalls. As per industry reports, Thailand imported USD 177M of raw sugar in 2023. This surge is supporting sugar prices and encouraging producers to maintain or expand cultivation.
Rapid advances in sugar production are transforming the sugar market for increasing yields, reducing costs, and promoting sustainability. Innovations, such as genetically improved sugarcane varieties to enhance resistance to pests and diseases, boosting crop productivity. In August 2022, India’s National Sugar Institute developed a sugar syrup from sweet sorghum stems for offering a healthier alternative to traditional sugar. These improvements are enabling producers to meet the rising global demand, stabilize supply, and offer more competitive pricing, adding to the market growth.
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The sugar market is shifting with increasing interest in healthier sweeteners, organic sugar, and natural sugar alternatives. Producers are adopting advanced processing techniques, sustainable farming, and efficient production methods to meet changing consumer preferences and comply with global food safety standards.
Focus on nutritious products, eco-friendly practices, and insights into pricing trends and supply dynamics is reshaping the industry. These trends reflect a sugar market driven by innovation, health-conscious consumption, and technological advancements, opening new avenues for growth and competitive advantage.
The EMR’s report titled “Sugar Market Report and Forecast 2026-2035” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:
Market Breakup by Type
Key Insight: The white sugar market share is increasing with widespread usage in households, food manufacturing, baking, and beverages. Countries including India, Brazil, and the United States have emerged as major producers and consumers. As per industry reports, India’s crystal white sugar production was equivalent to 33.6 MMT in 2023/2024. Refined from raw sugar via a multi-step process to remove molasses and impurities, white sugar continues to dominate both industrial and consumer applications globally.
Market Breakup by Form
Key Insight: Granulated sugar market is growing with wide usage across households and industries due to its versatility and ease of handling. This is the most standard form of sugar utilized in sweetening beverages, baking, and cooking. In July 2023, Nordzucker’s SweetFamily brand launched a locally sourced organic brown granulated sugar in Germany. Certified organic and sustainably grown, the new sugar caters to the growing clean-label demand among health conscious European consumers. The demand also remains robust in both developed and emerging markets, driven by its usage in processed foods, confectionery, and beverages.
Market Breakup by Source
Key Insight: Sugarcane is largely favoring the global sugar market, accounting for significant total sugar production. Brazil leads globally in sugarcane-based sugar and ethanol production, driven by integrated mills that support food and biofuel industries. In March 2024, Brazilian mills increased their sugar production capacity by 50% in 2024. India, the second-largest producer, utilizes sugarcane primarily for domestic sugar and jaggery. High yield, cost-effectiveness, and versatility also make sugarcane a preferred crop for sugar, especially in warm climates with ample rainfall and longer growing seasons.
Market Breakup by End User
Key Insight: The food and beverage segment dominates the sugar market, due to the growing demand for processed and packaged foods in both developed and emerging markets. Sugar is a key ingredient in confectionery, bakery goods, soft drinks, and dairy. Major brands are relying heavily on sugar for product formulation. The overall consumption further remains strong due to product innovation, evolving consumer preferences, and cultural significance of sweets in various global cuisines. For instance, in April 2025, Domino launched ultrafine Baker’s Sugar, non-GMO and kosher-certified, created for professional-level baking.
Market Breakup by Region
Key Insight: Asia Pacific sugar market is driven by massive production and consumption in India, China, and Thailand. As per industry reports, India's sugar production is estimated to touch 35 million metric tons raw value during 2025/26, with the presence of major companies. Thailand stands out as a top sugar exporter for catering to the growing demand in Southeast Asia. The region’s large population, expanding food & beverage industry, and rising ethanol production are also contributing to the market dominance.
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Brown Sugar & Liquid Sugar to Gain Prominence
Brown sugar holds a significant share in the sugar market, as it is favoured for its richer flavour and moist texture, especially in baking cookies, barbecue sauces, and ethnic dishes. In September 2023, SunOpta launched its SOWN® Brown Sugar Organic Oat Creamer to expand its plant-based lineup to offer a warm and comforting flavour. Brown sugar is preferred in premium or niche segments due to its perceived artisanal quality. The popularity of brown sugar is further rising with the emerging trends of less processed foods.
Liquid sugar industry is expanding with its significance in industrial use. This sugar is commonly used in beverages, canned fruits, and dairy products for its ease of mixing and processing. Superior solubility and consistency are making liquid sugar a preferred choice in various applications and processed foods. Brands, such as PepsiCo and Unilever are utilizing liquid sugar in manufacturing to streamline production and maintain consistency. Additionally, liquid sugar remains vital in high-volume, mechanized food processing environments.
Powdered Sugar & Sugar Syrup to Garner Significant Popularity
The demand for powdered sugar or icing sugar is growing with significant usage in baking, dessert decoration, and confectionery. Specialty brands are launching ultrafine powdered sugars for catering to professional bakers and home users. The convenience in smooth texture and quick dissolving properties also makes powdered sugar popular for frostings, glazes, and dustings, especially in major European and North American countries with high bakery consumption.
Sugar syrup is contributing to the sugar market revenue as it remains vital in industrial food production and beverages. This form of sugar is widely used in soft drinks, confectionery fillings, baked goods, and canned fruits. Several producers are supplying various syrups, including high-fructose corn syrup and invert sugar syrup. The segment is further growing with trends favouring liquid sweeteners for easier blending and processing. For instance, in July 2024, IHOP, in partnership with Kraft Heinz, introduced bottled pancake syrups in two flavors.
Rising Interest in Sugar Beet-Sourced Sugar
Sugar beet is another leading segment of the global sugar market, due to its advantages in colder regions. Sugar beet is primarily cultivated in temperate climates, with major producers including Germany, France, Poland, the United States, and Russia. In Europe, sugar beet is a critical part of the agro economy, supported by technological innovations and government policies. In August 2024, Ukraine's largest sugar producer Astarta commenced the processing of the 2024 sugar beet harvest at its Vinnytsia refinery. This growing focus of companies on beet-based processing is adding to the segment growth.
Surging Applications of Sugar in Pharma and Personal Care & Households
The pharmaceutical and personal care segment accounts for a significant share of the sugar market. In pharmaceuticals, sugar is largely used as a binding agent, preservative, and flavour enhancer in syrups, tablets, and lozenges. In personal care, sugar is found in scrubs, exfoliants, and other skincare products due to its gentle abrasive properties and moisturizing benefits. With growing demand for organic and natural ingredients in health and beauty products, the role of sugar in this sector is expanding.
The household segment is contributing to the sugar market. Consumers are largely using sugar daily for cooking, baking, sweetening beverages, and preserving foods at home. As per industry reports, an average American consumes around 71.14 grams of added sugar per day. In many cultures, homemade desserts and traditional recipes heavily rely on sugar, sustaining consistent demand. This segment also benefits from retail packaging innovations, such as resealable bags and organic or specialty sugars, such as brown, coconut, and powdered sugar.
Thriving Sugar Industry in North America & Europe
North America is contributing to the sugar demand growth, primarily driven by the presence of leading companies operating across a robust value chain. The United States has a well-established refining industry and stringent import quotas under trade agreements. The growth also stems from the food and beverage sector, which relies heavily on sugar for processed foods, confectionery, and soft drinks. As per industry reports, the United States imported USD 2.58B of raw sugar in 2024. This dependence on imports to meet the growing demand is also keeping the region influential.
Europe sugar market value is growing in terms of raw sugar production and rising importance as a refined sugar consumer and exporter. Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are leading the regional sugar industry, with companies, such as Südzucker and Nordzucker driving operations. The European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy and sugar quotas are historically shaping the market. Furthermore, the demand for beet sugar and sustainable production practices are maintaining Europe’s relevance in the global sugar value chain.
Key players in the sugar market are deploying strategic approaches to stay competitive and manage the volatility inherent in the industry. Many companies are expanding beyond traditional sugar production into value-added products. This is reducing the reliance on sugar prices and opens additional revenue streams, especially in countries where ethanol blending policies support demand. Vertical integration is another key approach. By controlling the entire supply chain from sugarcane cultivation to processing and distribution, companies can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure consistent quality and supply.
Global players are engaging in trade optimization and global sourcing by importing and exporting sugar based on price differentials between regions, taking advantage of trade agreements and tariff structures to enhance profitability and manage supply risks. Technological innovation is critical for increasing agricultural yields and refining efficiency. Advancements, such as precision farming, automation, and biotechnology are helping to reduce input costs and environmental impact while improving crop resilience. Many sugar companies are adopting eco-friendly practices to meet regulatory requirements and cater to environmentally conscious consumers.
Cosan S.A., founded in 1936 and headquartered in São Paulo, Brazil, is a major player in the sugar and ethanol industry, offering products such as sugar, ethanol, bioenergy, and logistics services. The company focuses on sustainable production and global market reach.
ABF Sugar Ltd., established in 2005 and headquartered in London, the United Kingdom, is a global sugar producer operating in multiple countries. AB Sugar’s portfolio includes raw and refined sugar products, as well as bioethanol with a focus on sustainable agriculture and innovation to meet growing global demand.
Südzucker AG, founded in 1926 and headquartered in Mannheim, Germany, is one of the world’s largest sugar producers. The company’s offerings include sugar, special products, starch, and bioethanol for serving both food industry clients and energy sectors with diversified product lines.
Nordzucker AG, launched in 1838 and headquartered in Braunschweig, Germany, supplies sugar products primarily in Europe, including beet sugar and specialty sugars. Nordzucker focuses on efficiency and sustainability within its agricultural and production processes.
*Please note that this is only a partial list; the complete list of key players is available in the full report. Additionally, the list of key players can be customized to better suit your needs.*
Other players in the sugar market are COFCO International, Tereos Group, Mitr Phol Group., Dalmia Bharat Sugar and Industries Limited, Louis Dreyfus Company, Wilmar International Ltd, The Savola Group, E.I.D. – Parry (India) Limited, Rusagro Group, Thai Roong Ruang Sugar Group, and Cargill, Incorporated., among others.
Download your free sample of the sugar market trends 2026 report today to unlock vital insights into market growth drivers, competitive strategies, and emerging opportunities. Stay ahead with expert analysis on global sugar consumption, production, and sustainability innovations. Get detailed forecasts and actionable data to power your business decisions in the evolving sugar industry landscape.
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*While we strive to always give you current and accurate information, the numbers depicted on the website are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the main report. At Expert Market Research, we aim to bring you the latest insights and trends in the market. Using our analyses and forecasts, stakeholders can understand the market dynamics, navigate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities to make data-driven strategic decisions.*
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In 2025, the market reached an approximate volume of 178.15 MMT.
The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 1.30% between 2026 and 2035.
The market is estimated to witness a healthy growth in the forecast period of 2026-2035 to reach a volume of 202.71 MMT by 2035.
Key strategies driving the market include expanding sustainable farming, investing in advanced processing technologies, diversifying product portfolios with low-calorie and organic options, enhancing supply chain efficiency, tapping into emerging markets, boosting exports, adopting biofuel integration, and innovating packaging to meet environmental and consumer convenience demands.
The key trends in the market include the thriving e-commerce sector which is fuelling the sale of premium packaged sugary food products, rising disposable income, and growing research and development activities in the pharmaceutical sector.
White, brown, and liquid are the different segments of the market based on type.
Granulated, powdered, and syrup are the segments of the market based on form.
Sugar can be unhealthy if consumed in large amounts. If consumed in a responsible manner, sugar can boost energy level, counter depression, and lighten your skin tone.
The key players in the market report include Cosan S.A., ABF Sugar Ltd., Südzucker AG, Nordzucker AG, COFCO International, Tereos Group, Mitr Phol Group., Dalmia Bharat Sugar and Industries Limited, Louis Dreyfus Company, Wilmar International Ltd, The Savola Group, E.I.D. – Parry (India) Limited, Rusagro Group, Thai Roong Ruang Sugar Group, and Cargill, Incorporated., among others.
The food and beverage segment dominates the market, due to the growing demand for processed and packaged foods in both developed and emerging markets.
Explore our key highlights of the report and gain a concise overview of key findings, trends, and actionable insights that will empower your strategic decisions.
| REPORT FEATURES | DETAILS |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2019-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Scope of the Report |
Historical and Forecast Trends, Industry Drivers and Constraints, Historical and Forecast Market Analysis by Segment:
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| Breakup by Type |
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| Breakup by Form |
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| Breakup by Source |
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| Breakup by End Use |
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| Breakup by Region |
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| Market Dynamics |
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| Trade Data Analysis |
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| Competitive Landscape |
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| Companies Covered |
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