Origins and Production: Sugar is primarily derived from sugarcane and sugar beets. Major sugar-producing countries include Brazil, India, Thailand, and the United States. The production process involves extracting juice from the sugarcane or beets, which is then purified, crystallized, and dried.
Processing: The extracted juice undergoes clarification to remove impurities, followed by evaporation to concentrate the juice. The concentrated juice is crystallized, and the crystals are separated and dried to produce raw sugar. Further refining produces white sugar.
Pricing: Sugar prices are influenced by factors such as weather conditions, global demand, production levels, and government policies. Prices are often quoted on commodity exchanges like ICE and NYSE.
Freight and Logistics: Transporting sugar involves bulk shipping, typically in specialized containers or bulk carriers. Efficient logistics management is crucial to prevent spoilage and ensure timely delivery.
Global Markets: The global sugar market is highly competitive, with significant trade flows between producing and consuming countries. Key importers include the European Union, China, and the United States.
