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
Strong U.S. yields and steady demand leave most major crops well supplied, keeping price pressure in place unless usage strengthens or weather shifts outlooks.
November 17, 2025 01:17 PM
·
Retail competition and improved supplies are helping offset food inflation, pushing Thanksgiving meal costs modestly lower despite higher prices for beef, eggs, and dairy.
November 16, 2025 03:00 PM
·
While agriculture doesn’t predict every recession, the sector’s long history of turning down before the broader economy
November 16, 2025 12:00 PM
·
ARC-CO delivers the bulk of 2024 support, offering key margin relief as producers manage tight operating conditions.
November 15, 2025 12:00 PM
·
Higher menu prices and tax-free tips are reshaping restaurant economics, sharply lifting server take-home pay even as diners face higher out-the-door costs.
November 15, 2025 08:00 AM
·
USDA’s steady yields and heavy global stocks keep grains range-bound unless demand firms or South American weather becomes a real threat.
November 14, 2025 05:26 PM
·
As economic pressures continue to squeeze agriculture, ag lenders are signaling a more cautious outlook for farm profitability heading into next year, particularly among grain producers facing lower commodity prices and higher operating costs.
November 14, 2025 02:10 PM
·
USDA released the November WASDE Report on Friday, the first supply-and-demand estimate to drop since September, just before the 43-day government shutdown.
November 14, 2025 12:22 PM
·
U.S. Trade officials announced new deals with El Salvador, Guatemala, Ecuador, and Argentina, as well as a steep reduction in tariffs on Swiss imports.
November 14, 2025 11:58 AM
·
