NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — U.S. sugar supplies are tightening as updated federal data show lower production, unusual swings in imports, and a smaller cushion of sugar held in reserve. The latest report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) indicates that last summer’s rush of imports — driven by buyers trying to beat new tariffs — temporarily inflated supplies, but production declines now put the market on a softer footing heading into 2026.
Total U.S. sugar production for 2024/25 finished at 9.396 million short tons, supported by strong late-season beet processing but offset by weaker cane harvests in Louisiana. Deliveries to food companies rose as refiners pulled in extra sugar from abroad, including a record in July. Even so, ending stocks settled at a comfortable but shrinking level of 19.84 percent of annual use.
Looking ahead, 2025/26 production is forecast to fall slightly, especially for sugarbeets, which are expected to yield less. Imports will play a bigger role, with more high-tariff sugar and molasses expected to enter the market to fill the gap.
Mexico — a key partner under trade agreements — is also projecting smaller output after heavy rains, though it plans to maintain enough stock to continue shipments to U.S. buyers.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Lower U.S. and Mexican production means tighter sugar supplies and greater reliance on imports headed into 2026.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
The total value of the U.S. potato crop was $4.60 billion in 2024, representing an 8% decrease from the previous year.
September 29, 2025 06:00 PM
·
Crop-specific shifts and strong prices highlight the variability of this year’s fruit and tree nut harvest, according to USDA data.
September 29, 2025 05:11 PM
·
The decline in production marks the second consecutive year of contraction in the U.S. turkey industry.
September 29, 2025 05:05 PM
·
The USDA noted that peanut edible utilization season-to-date is down 3% on the year, despite overall stocks increasing.
September 29, 2025 04:55 PM
·
A booming butterfat market is good for some dairy products but threatens efficiency and margins for cheesemakers unless protein levels catch up
September 29, 2025 12:53 PM
·
Duane Simpson, CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC), joined us in Monday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on the USDA’s plan and potential impact on producers.
September 29, 2025 12:17 PM
·
Land values are increasing faster than farm income, making it more challenging for young and beginning farmers to expand, but supporting equity for current landowners.
September 29, 2025 09:58 AM
·
Smaller flocks and lower lay rates are pressuring table egg supplies, even as hatchery activity edges higher.
September 26, 2025 04:58 PM
·
Strong corn exports are anchoring U.S. trade, while soybean sales remain steady, but shipments lag.
September 26, 2025 04:48 PM
·
