Global: Beet sugar production in Europe increases with rising prices

The bloc, the third largest producer in the world, behind only Brazil and India, will see an increase in the area cultivated with beet by 1.5 million hectares, especially in countries such as Poland, Spain and Romania. In contrast, France, the main sugar producer in Europe, will reduce the cultivation area by 6%. The decision by French farmers to diversify their agricultural area comes after the European Court of Justice banned the use of neonicotinoid-based insecticides in beet crops. This pesticide was used to contain aphids responsible for spreading the beetroot yellow virus. Even without effective alternatives to control the disease, current sugar prices guarantee profitability in some regions, such as Poland. The USDA anticipates two new plants coming into operation in Romania, with some support from the local government. Data from consultancy Datagro indicate that the average cost of producing beet sugar in Europe is around US$0.23 per pound. Currently, in New York, the ...