India sugar and jaggery markets see divergent price trends

India is experiencing a divergent market trend between sugar and jaggery. Wholesale sugar prices have dropped to approximately Rs 52 per kg from recent highs of Rs 72 per kg, aided by government measures to increase supply and limit bulk stock accumulation. Conversely, jaggery prices remain high at around Rs 74 per kg due to strong festive demand and a seasonal pause in production in regions like Latur.

In South Gujarat, sugarcane farmers are facing economic pressure due to rising fertilizer and labor costs alongside stagnant cane prices. Farmers report that sugarcane currently fetches around Rs 3,600-3,700 per tonne, a rate similar to a decade ago, while cultivation costs have surged. Consequently, some farmers in the region are shifting away from sugarcane to plant mango orchards or vegetables to maintain profitability.