Sugar production tops 2 million metric tons amid insect threat

Sugar production has surpassed 2 million metric tons (MMT) for the current crop year, exceeding previous forecasts and the 1.92 MMT produced last year.

The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) reported that as of June 8, output reached 2.015 MMT, putting the industry on track to exceed its latest projection of 1.840 MMT.

SRA Administrator Pablo Luisa S. Azcona attributed the upward revision to the recovery of sugarcane after El Niño, stable sugar prices, expanded planting, and the distribution of high-yielding varieties.

The adjustment of the crop calendar to October from August, allowing for better climatic conditions and cane maturity, also contributed to the increased output.

This level of production suggests that retail prices will remain stable, and the SRA believes the industry has the potential to match demand of 2.3 MMT with continued support.

Despite the positive production figures, the industry is facing an infestation of red-striped soft scale insects, which could decrease sugar content by nearly 50%.