Industry Achieves 141,391 Tonnes of Sugar with 64% of Cane Harvested, Extraction 9.4%

The estimated sugar production for the 2025 season has been reduced to 215,000 tonnes, down from an initial forecast of 220,000 tonnes made in May. The adjustment comes as the sugar harvest continues, with data released by the Chambre d’Agriculture on Thursday, November 13, showing current production at 141,391 tonnes.

Current Harvest Figures

To date, approximately 64% of the cultivated area has been harvested, resulting in 1,504,758 tonnes of cane processed. The current sugar extraction rate stands at 9.4%, which has yielded the 141,391 tonnes of sugar recorded so far.

Factors Behind the Downturn

Observations from the Crop Estimate Coordinating Committee indicate that several external issues have “significantly impacted” the milling operations at the Terra and Omnicane sugar factories. These issues include:

• Maintenance works on the water distribution network in the north.
• Major breakdowns at the Terra and Omnicane thermal power stations.

Despite these setbacks, the Committee noted that “everything is currently being done” to ensure the current harvest is completed before the end of this year.

Industry Efforts and Appeals

Factories, planters, and institutions are reportedly doubling down on efforts to maintain operations “in the best possible conditions.”

The final outcome of the harvest, however, remains dependent on “several external factors,” according to the Committee, including:

• Weather conditions.
• The smooth running of the thermal power stations.
• Logistics.

The Committee has issued an urgent appeal to all planters, stressing the importance of sending “clean and good quality cane” to the mills at this stage. This is crucial for:

• Ensuring a better sugar yield.
• Reducing losses during extraction.
• Improving the performance of industrial equipment.

Planters are specifically advised to ensure the cutting, transport, and rapid delivery of canes that adhere to the required quality standards at the factories.

About the Committee

The Crop Estimate Coordinating Committee is a body comprising representatives from the:

• Mauritius Cane Industry Authority
• Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research Institute
• Sugar estates
• Sugar Insurance Fund Board
• Mauritius Sugar Syndicate
• Statistics Mauritius
• Ministry of Agro-Industry

Source: Defi Media