According to the latest sugar production data of ISMA, sugar production in UP is at 74.83 lakh tons so far. Speaking to ChiniMandi, S L Sharma, Executive Director, Uttam Sugar Mills, said that the sugar production in UP is on a decreasing trend compared to last season.
“Some mills have already closed their season, and it is expected that most mills will close their season earlier compared to last season,” he said.
Outlining the reasons for earlier closure, Sharma said that the standing sugarcane was badly affected by heavy rains/floods in the months of August and September 2025, resulting in a decline in yield, both in the case of the plant and ratoon.
He reflected on higher sugar diversion in the Gur unit. “Due to lower yield and higher demand for Gur, sugarcane diversion was higher, resulting in regulated crushing done by mills”, he explained.
On the positive side, Sharma said that sugar recovery is slightly better in the current season than last season; besides, there has been lower diversion in ethanol.
On the issues faced by the mills, he said the mills are still struggling with a good variety. Farm labour issues continue to plague sugar mills in harvesting/planting/other operations etc.
