Sugar production in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus down 6% in 2018/19

In the next season, the total sugar production in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus should decrease by 6% as compared to MY2017/18, yet the export potential should not be affected.

This was informed by the Head of the Analytical Service at Sucden ((CIS)) Marina Sidak during the first Sugar Trade and Export Conference, Ukrsugar reports.

"In MY2018/19, in Ukraine and Russia, there will be a decrease in sugar production by 5.5% and 11%, respectively. But in Belarus, it is projected to grow by 13%. At the same time, sugar exports from Ukraine and Russia will increase by 13% and 7% respectively, while Belarus expects a slight decrease of 5%. In addition, there will remain a tough competition for the markets," Marina Sidak explained.

According to her, due to the negative demographic situation in Ukraine, there will be a decrease in domestic consumption and there is a risk of reducing Ukrainian rail deliveries of sugar due to a shortage of covered wagons.