Local raw sugar production has reached 1.86 million metric tons in the current crop year, exceeding the previous year’s output. This increase is attributed to more sugarcane being milled and higher sweetener content, according to data from the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA).
The SRA reported that raw sugar output in the 2023-2024 crop year as of April 14 is 3.6 percent higher than the 1.8 million MT output in the previous crop year. This figure also surpasses the SRA’s production estimate of 1.85 million MT for the current crop year, which is expected to end on August 31.
SRA administrator Pablo Luis Azcona credited the administration’s efforts to move back the harvest cycle to September for the improved local sugar yield. Despite this success, Azcona stated that the SRA will push for the original October 1 start of milling to further enhance sugarcane quality.
The increased production encouraged by high farmgate prices has offset the loss of sugarcane areas in Batangas. Data shows that sugarcane areas in the current crop year expanded by 6,606 hectares compared to the previous year.
Despite challenges posed by the El Niño phenomenon affecting sugarcane growth in certain regions, such as Batangas, Mindanao, and South Negros, the total sugarcane milled as of mid-April is almost 10 percent higher than the same period last year.
The Philippine Sugar Millers Association (PSMA) president Terence Uygongco welcomed the higher raw sugar production, stating that it helps address uncertainties in the country’s sugar supply. The PSMA reiterated its position on importation, emphasizing the need for import programs to be need-based and transparent.
With the implementation of Administrative Order 20 by President Marcos, the PSMA expects a more predictable and simplified import program that aligns with the welfare of both producers and consumers.
