The Indian government has declared that India will assume the chairmanship of the International Sugar Organisation (ISO) in 2024, a significant recognition given India’s status as the world’s largest sugar consumer and the second-largest producer. The declaration occurred at ISO’s 63rd council session convened in London.
Expressing pride in this achievement, the food ministry highlighted India’s growing influence in the global sugar sector. During the ISO Council Meeting, Union Food Secretary Mr. Sanjeev Chopra sought support and collaboration from member countries for India’s presidency in 2024. The focus will be on promoting sustainable practices in sugarcane cultivation, sugar, and ethanol production, as well as optimizing byproduct utilization.
India’s substantial impact on global sugar markets, with a 15% share of worldwide sugar consumption and 20% of production, positions it as an ideal leader for ISO. The country’s leadership in ethanol production, ranking third globally after the USA and Brazil, showcases its commitment to green energy and addressing challenges like surplus sugar in the domestic market.
The ministry highlighted India’s success in ethanol blending, reaching 12% in 2022-23 from 5% in 2019-20, along with a significant increase in production. Notably, unpaid cane dues for farmers have been minimal, with over 98% of last season’s dues already settled and more than 99.9% of previous seasons’ dues cleared.
Despite a 40% global increase in sugar prices, India has effectively contained price hikes to within 5%, ensuring stable domestic retail prices without imposing an additional burden on the industry. This success reflects India’s strategic approach to managing its position in the global sugar market.
