Dry conditions in South Africa could end the sugar cane season early

Data gathered by SA Canegrowers reveals that sugarcane crop yields so far this year are on par with previous years and sufficient to supply local demand. However, unusually dry weather over the last months in growing areas will potentially shorten the season by up to a month, adding yet another concern to an industry that has to contend with a range of concurrent challenges, including the rising cost of electricity. Up to 17 August this year, South Africa’s cane growers delivered just over 10,6 million tonnes of sugarcane to sugar mills, compared to 10,59 million tonnes a year ago. The quality of the cane delivered was 2% higher if compared to last year at 11,99%. This means that South Africa’s sugar industry will be more efficient as less cane is required for sugar production. It also means that despite the crop dropping, the industry will continue to supply locally produced sugar to commercial, industrial, and household consumers. Read more about transformation in the sugar ...