Pakistani sugar industry expects 2010/11 production to reach 3.8 mln tonnes

ugar production in 2010/11 (Nov/Oct) is forecast to reach 3.8 mln tonnes, white value, according to the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA). Earlier, the group had predicted output to be in a range of 3.6-3.8 mln tonnes.

Originally, it had been feared that the July floods would reduce the availability of sugarcane. However, average yields are now seen reaching between 40 and 45 tonnes a ha, almost 15% higher than in the previous year. The cane recovery rate has also improved to around 9.5% of the new crop from 9% last year, the PSMA said. Sugar consumption in the country is forecast to reach 4.2 mln tonnes.

source: agra-net