Sugar Prices Recover as Crude Oil Strength Spurs Short Covering

Core Insights - Sugar prices have shown a recovery after early losses, influenced by a rise in crude oil prices, which may lead to reduced sugar supplies as mills shift towards ethanol production [1] - Global sugar supplies are projected to be abundant, with a forecasted surplus of 2.8 million metric tons (MMT) for the 2025/26 season, contrasting with a deficit of 4.7 MMT in the previous season [2] - Brazil's sugar output has increased significantly, with a reported 18% year-on-year rise in the second half of August, which is expected to negatively impact sugar prices [3] - India is anticipated to divert 4 MMT of sugar for ethanol production, which may lead to increased exports of sugar, further contributing to the global surplus [4] - The International Sugar Organization (ISO) has forecasted a global sugar deficit for the 2025/26 season, marking the sixth consecutive year of deficits, although the deficit is expected to improve compared to the previous season [5] Price Movements - October NY world sugar 11 increased by 0.23 (+1.51%) and December London ICE white sugar 5 rose by 8.40 (+1.86%) [1] - Sugar prices reached a 4.25-year low for NY sugar and a 4-year low for London sugar earlier in the day [2] Production Insights - Brazil's Center-South sugar output for the second half of August was reported at 3.872 MMT, with an increase in the percentage of sugarcane crushed for sugar [3] - Cumulative sugar output in Brazil for the 2025-26 season through August decreased by 1.9% year-on-year to 26.758 MMT [3] Global Supply and Demand - The ISO projects a global sugar production increase of 3.3% year-on-year to 180.6 MMT for the 2025/26 season, while global consumption is expected to rise by 0.3% to 180.8 MMT [5]