Maharashtra’s sugar industry has recorded a sharp rise in output in the ongoing 2025–26 crushing season, signalling a strong recovery driven by higher cane availability and improved mill performance. Data available as of April 1 show total sugar production at 988.79 lakh quintals, a substantial increase from 806.78 lakh quintals in the previous season.

The increase in output has been accompanied by a surge in cane crushing, which rose to 1,043.17 lakh tonne from 852.65 lakh tonne a year earlier. The overall recovery rate has remained stable at 9.48 per cent, marginally higher than last season’s 9.46 per cent, indicating that gains have come largely from higher volumes rather than a significant improvement in efficiency.

Western Maharashtra continues to anchor the State’s sugar economy. The Kolhapur division has emerged as the top performer, reporting a recovery rate of 11.02 per cent, well above the State average, along with production of 231.91 lakh quintals. Pune division, meanwhile, has led in cane crushing volumes at 224.99 lakh tonne, reflecting strong operational throughput across its mills. Solapur, which has the highest number of mills at 49, has reported comparatively lower recovery of 8.6 per cent, pointing to persistent efficiency challenges despite its scale.

Private Mills Dominate

The data also reflect a gradual shift in the structure of the industry, with private mills now slightly outnumbering cooperative units. Of the total 210 mills operational this season, 107 are privately owned, compared to 103 cooperatives. This trend is particularly visible in regions such as Solapur and Nanded, where private participation has expanded steadily over recent years.

Regional disparities, however, remain pronounced. While western and central parts of the State continue to perform strongly, eastern regions lag behind. Nagpur division has reported a recovery rate of just 4.13 per cent, significantly below the State average, highlighting issues related to cane quality and operational efficiency. Amravati, though performing better in recovery terms, contributes only marginally to overall output due to its limited scale.

Production Impact

Out of the 210 mills that commenced operations, as many as 187 have already concluded crushing.

The rise in production is expected to weigh on domestic sugar prices unless offset by higher exports or diversion towards ethanol. With the government continuing to push ethanol blending, a portion of the surplus could be redirected, helping mills manage inventory and maintain liquidity.

At the same time industry players insist that, the wide variation in recovery rates across regions underscores the need for investment in better agronomic practices and technology upgrades to improve efficiency in lagging areas.

Published on April 3, 2026