Reaction from the field
The Chaudhary Devi Lal Cooperative Sugar Mill in Haryana is poised to make a significant impact on the global market by exporting sugar to African countries during the 2025–26 crushing season. This move is expected to not only enhance the mill’s revenue but also position Haryana’s sugar industry on the international stage.
The mill has been granted permission to export approximately 16,500 quintals of sugar, a substantial quota that reflects the growing demand for high-quality sugar produced in Haryana. The mill crushed 22.08 lakh quintals of sugarcane, resulting in a production of about 1.86 lakh quintals of sugar during the current season. This production level indicates the mill’s capacity to meet both domestic and international market needs.
In addition to the export plans, the mill has also recorded impressive sales in the domestic market, with 47,000 quintals of sugar sold locally. The price range for sugar in the domestic market is between Rs 3,900 and Rs 4,000 per quintal, showcasing the competitive pricing strategy that could further bolster its export potential.
Moreover, the mill has achieved a notable milestone by selling around 10,000 quintals of bagasse at a price of Rs 316 per quintal, marking the highest price for bagasse sales among cooperative mills in the state. This achievement underscores the mill’s operational efficiency and its ability to capitalize on by-products.
Officials have expressed optimism regarding the mill’s entry into the global market, stating, “Entering the global market is likely to open up further export opportunities in the future.” This sentiment is echoed by the broader trends in the sugar industry, where quality and competitive pricing are paramount for success in international markets.
As the sugar federation prepares to issue tenders for export, the mill’s target price for sugar exports is set at around Rs 4,000 per quintal. This pricing strategy is crucial as it aligns with market expectations and positions the mill favorably against competitors.
While the current developments are promising, the ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the war in Iran, pose a potential risk to the global economy. As noted by industry experts, the war is a “major, major threat” to the global economy, with implications that could affect supply chains and market dynamics. Details remain unconfirmed regarding how these external factors might influence the sugar export plans of the mill.
In summary, the Chaudhary Devi Lal Cooperative Sugar Mill’s foray into the global market represents a significant milestone for Haryana’s sugar industry. With a solid production base and strategic pricing, the mill is well-positioned to capitalize on international demand, although external geopolitical factors may introduce uncertainties in the future.
