Describe the distribution of sugar producing countries in the world.
UPSC Mains
Syllabus topic
Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India)
Why was this question asked?
Discuss the factors for localisation of agro-based food processing industries of North-West India? (2018)
Do you agree that there is a growing trend of opening new sugar mills in the Southern states of India? Discuss with justification. (2013)
Introduction
Sugar production is a significant industry that spans across the globe. The majority of sugar is derived from sugar cane, cultivated in tropical regions, while the remainder is sourced from sugar beet grown in temperate zones. The top ten sugar-producing nations account for 75% of the world’s sugar production, highlighting their dominance in this sector.
Body
Factors Influencing Sugar Industry Development:
Availability of raw material: Sugar production requires abundant sugar cane or sugar beet crops.
Good transport network: Efficient transport infrastructure is essential for timely delivery of raw materials and finished products.
Availability of power: Access to reliable power sources supports sugar processing operations.
Technological innovation: Adoption of modern techniques enhances productivity and efficiency.
Skilled and unskilled labour: Adequate workforce, including skilled and unskilled labour, is vital for them industry.
Market: A stable and growing market for sugar and its byproducts drives industry growth.
Capital: Sufficient capital investment enables the establishment and expansion of sugar mills.
Government support: Policies and subsidies from governments can significantly impact the sugar industry’s development.
Prominent Sugar Producing Countries:
Brazil: Brazil leads global sugar production, primarily from sugarcane. The industry employs advanced agricultural practices, emphasizing environmental preservation and high yields.
India: India is the largest consumer and second-largest producer of sugar globally. Its rural-centric industry supports economic development and generates employment for millions of sugarcane farmers.
China: As the third-largest sugar producer, China primarily relies on sugarcane cultivation. Its sugar industry contributes to the socio-economic development of cane-producing regions.
Thailand: Thailand houses 54 sugar mills, with Bangkok, Thaonburi, Lampang, and Paoching serving as prominent production centers.
Pakistan: Pakistan is self-sufficient in sugar production, with sugar factories located in various cities, including Charsadda, Joharabad, and Lahore.
Mexico: Mexico ranks sixth in global sugar production, focusing on sugarcane cultivation in provinces like Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas.
Colombia: Colombia stands as the seventh-largest sugar producer, with sugarcane farming concentrated in the Cauca River valley and supporting numerous subsistence farmers.
Philippines: The Philippines is the eighth-largest sugar producer, with sugarcane crops grown in multiple regions and provinces such as Negros Island, Luzon, Panay, and Mindanao.
USA: The United States concentrates its sugarcane production in Florida, Louisiana, Texas, and Hawaii, supplying raw sugar for further refinement.
Indonesia: Indonesia rounds out the top ten sugar-producing countries, with Java and Jakarta serving as primary centers.
The industry plays a crucial role in the country’s economy.
Conclusion
The global sugar industry is vital for various countries, contributing to economic growth, employment, and agricultural development.
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