Brazil's Sugar Exports Expected to Decline by 14 Percent

31-Mar-2026 01:56 PM

São Paulo. A leading industry analyst reports that while Brazil exported 33.8 million tonnes of sugar during the 2025-26 marketing season, this figure is projected to contract by 14 percent in the 2026-27 season, falling to 29 million tonnes. The new marketing season is set to commence on April 1, 2026.

According to the analyst, Brazilian millers are expected to utilize corn—rather than sugarcane—for ethanol production this season; consequently, domestic sugar output is projected to decline from 43.5 million tonnes to 40.3 million tonnes. This reduction will result in a decrease in the exportable surplus stock.

Conversely, a substantial surge in ethanol production is anticipated. Total ethanol output in Brazil—derived from sources including sugarcane and corn—is projected to rise by 10.7 percent, reaching a record high of 42.58 billion liters; this expansion will aid the country in reducing its reliance on petroleum imports. Notably, Brazil stands as the world's leading producer and exporter of sugar. A decline in exports from Brazil would, therefore, indirectly benefit India.