The Government of Pakistan has officially announced that the sugarcane crushing season for 2025–26 will begin on November 15, following a key decision made by the Sugar Advisory Board (SAB) chaired by Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain.
The decision was finalized after extensive consultations with provincial governments, the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA), cane commissioners, and senior officials from the industries, production, and commerce ministries.
🚜 Record Sugarcane Crop Expected
According to initial estimates, sugarcane production for 2025–26 is projected at around 85 million tonnes, slightly higher than last year’s output of 84 million tonnes.
The cultivated area has also expanded by 1.7%, reaching 1.213 million hectares, signaling a strong harvest season ahead.
💰 Timely Crushing to Protect Growers’ Interests
Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain emphasized that the start date was fixed to ensure timely payments to farmers and prevent the delays that have often burdened cane growers in previous years.
He warned that strict action will be taken against any sugar mill that fails to begin operations on schedule.
“Clearing farmers’ dues is a top priority. The government will not tolerate any exploitation,”
said the Minister, adding that timely crushing will stabilize sugar supply and benefit both growers and consumers.
🏭 Government and Industry Aligned
The meeting was attended by a delegation of the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA), led by Chaudhary Zaka Ashraf, along with provincial representatives and federal officials. The consensus reflects a rare alignment between government and industry, aimed at protecting growers’ rights and maintaining price stability in the local market.
With mills preparing to start operations and the crop ready for harvest, Pakistan’s sugar industry is gearing up for what could be one of its most efficient and well-regulated seasons in years.
