Which Country is the Largest Exporter of Sugar in the World?

Largest Exporter of Sugar: Brazil is the world’s largest exporter of sugar, exporting around 29.4 million tonnes per year. With vast sugarcane plantations, a favourable climate, and efficient port logistics, Brazil supplies nearly 50% of global sugar exports.

Which Country is the Largest Exporter of Sugar in the World?

Brazil is the largest exporter of sugar globally. The country’s sugarcane belt, especially in São Paulo and Minas Gerais, produces massive quantities for export, processed into both raw and refined sugar. Brazil’s sugar industry is supported by strong infrastructure, government incentives, and integration with the ethanol fuel market.

How Much Sugar Does Brazil Export?

Brazil exports approximately 29.4 million metric tonnes of sugar annually. Its top markets include China, Indonesia, Algeria, India, and Bangladesh. The country also invests in refining and logistics to maintain its lead in international sugar shipments.

Top 5 Sugar Exporting Countries in the World

Source: International Sugar Organisation (ISO), USDA, 2023–2024 data

1. Brazil

Brazil leads global sugar exports, driven by its large-scale sugarcane plantations and integrated ethanol production. Brazilian sugar is known for its competitiveness, stable supply, and ability to meet large-scale industrial and retail demand.

2. Thailand

Thailand exports about 11.5 million tonnes of sugar annually. The Thai sugar industry benefits from favourable weather, government support, and proximity to key Asian markets like Indonesia, China, and South Korea.

3. India

India exports around 6.1 million tonnes of sugar each year, depending on domestic surplus. While India is also one of the top producers of sugar, it restricts exports during low production years to stabilise local prices.

4. France

France is Europe’s leading sugar exporter, with around 2.1 million tonnes annually. Most of its sugar is made from sugar beets. The French sugar industry is modern and focuses on high-quality refined sugar.

5. Germany

Germany exports nearly 1.8 million tonnes of sugar per year. Like France, Germany’s production comes mainly from sugar beets, with efficient factories and strong connections to EU markets.

Other Countries with Notable Sugar Exports

Countries like Guatemala, Australia, Mexico, and the Netherlands also export significant amounts of sugar. These nations play important roles in the global market, especially in niche and regional trade routes.

Interesting Facts About Sugar Export

1. Brazil Exports Both Raw and Refined Sugar

Brazil’s exports include raw brown sugar for industrial use and white refined sugar for direct consumption. Its processing plants can switch between sugar and ethanol production, depending on market conditions.

2. Sugar is a Major Foreign Exchange Earner

In Brazil and Thailand, sugar ranks among the top agricultural exports, generating billions in revenue and supporting thousands of jobs in farming, logistics, and refining.

3. Sugar Export Prices Fluctuate with Weather

Global sugar prices and export volumes are sensitive to droughts, floods, and global oil prices (due to the ethanol link). This makes sugar one of the more volatile commodities on the market.

4. India Balances Between Export and Domestic Need

India’s sugar exports rise in years of surplus and are restricted during shortfalls. The government plays an active role in balancing local demand with global trade opportunities.

5. Sugar Supports Rural Economies

Sugarcane farming and processing provide livelihoods to millions across Latin America, Asia, and Africa. The export industry helps build roads, schools, and healthcare in many rural regions.

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Which Country is the Largest Producer of Sugar in the World?