Industrial Sugar Market

Market Overview

The global industrial sugar market size was valued at USD 48.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 80.6 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period (2024-2032). Expanding sugarcane output, rising sugar costs, changes in the industrial beet sugar market, and ready-to-eat food and beverage consumption patterns significantly impact the global industrial sugar market share.

Industrial sugar is refined sugar primarily used in non-consumption applications such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and other industrial processes. Unlike retail or consumer sugar, which is typically sold in granulated or powdered form for direct consumption, industrial sugar is frequently further processed and refined to meet the specific needs of industrial applications.

The growing relevance of sugar in international trade and its use in many application sectors to add value to the final product are the key drivers of the industrial sugar market's growth. Additionally, increased sugar cane and sugar beet output to meet rising global sugar demand is moving the industrial sugar business forward. Furthermore, increased government efforts to boost sugar production, such as providing subsidies or lifting sugar production restrictions, contribute to market expansion. 

However, rising health concerns among the global population have resulted in a shift in demand for alternative sweeteners or sugar replacements in the application industries, offering obstacles to the global industrial sugar market growth.

Highlights

• Cane Sugar accounts for the largest share of the market by source.
• White Sugar contributes significantly to the market by type.
• Confectionary dominates the market by end-use.

Market Dynamics

Industrial Sugar Market Drivers

Expansion of Food and Beverage Industry 

The expansion of the food and beverage industry, fueled by population growth, urbanization, and shifting consumer preferences, is a significant driver of the industrial sugar market. Industrial sugar is an essential ingredient in various processed foods and beverages, including baked goods, confectionery, soft drinks, and packaged foods, which drives demand for sweeteners and flavor enhancers.

Additionally, the demand for industrial sugar in the food and beverage industry is expected to remain strong due to the growing popularity of sweetened beverages, confectionery products, and bakery items, particularly in emerging economies with expanding middle-class populations and disposable income. According to Harvard, sugary drinks are the US diet's most common source of added sugar and calories. Sugary drink consumption in developing countries is rising due to urbanization and beverage marketing. Also, the patterns of confectionery consumption have changed, with per capita consumption in Europe nearly exceeding seven kilograms. In contrast, candy consumption in the United States will exceed three kilograms per person. 

Furthermore, industrial sugar is a versatile ingredient in food and beverage formulations, offering sweetness, texture, mouthfeel, and flavor enhancement properties. It is a preservative, bulking agent, and fermentation substrate in various food products, improving their flavor, appearance, and shelf stability. The food and beverage industry relies heavily on industrial sugar found in carbonated soft drinks, fruit juices, candies, chocolates, ice creams, baked goods, sauces, dressings, and ready-to-eat meals.

Moreover, as the food and beverage market expands and diversifies, demand for industrial sugar will remain strong, resulting in market growth and opportunities for sugar manufacturers and suppliers worldwide.

Industrial Sugar Market Restraints

Health Concerns and Sugar Regulation

Health concerns about excessive sugar consumption and its link to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems have prompted increased scrutiny and regulatory measures on sugar content in food and beverage products. Government-imposed sugar taxes, labeling requirements, and public health campaigns promoting sugar reduction can reduce demand for industrial sugar and encourage manufacturers to explore alternative sweeteners and reduce sugar content in their products. According to a JAMA study, drinking one can of soda per day can result in a 15-pound weight gain over a year.

The World Health Organization (WHO) also recommends that adults and children consume no more than 10% of their energy from free sugars. For added health benefits, the WHO recommends limiting this intake to less than 5% of total energy intake, or about 25 grams (6 teaspoons) per day. The WHO recommends limiting free sugar intake throughout life to reduce the risk of unhealthy weight gain and tooth decay.

Moreover, several countries have implemented sugar labeling regulations to inform consumers about the sugar content of food and beverage products. In April 2018, the UK introduced a two-tiered tax on sugar-sweetened beverages. The tax is levied on producers based on the sugar concentration of their drinks, with different rates applied to different sugar levels. Drinks containing more than 8 g of sugar per 100 mL are taxed at 0.24 Pounds per liter, while those containing 5 to 8 g per mL are taxed at 0.18 Pounds per liter.

Industrial Sugar Market Opportunity

Rising Demand for Natural and Organic Sweeteners

With rising consumer awareness of health and wellness, there is a greater demand for natural and organic sweeteners as alternatives to refined sugar. Industrial sugar manufacturers can use this trend by diversifying their product offerings to include natural and organic sugar variants derived from sugarcane, sugar beets, and other plant-based sources. Certified organic and non-GMO sugar options may appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for clean-label products with transparent sourcing and manufacturing practices.

In addition, the organic food and beverage market, including organic sweeteners, has grown significantly in recent years, owing to consumer preferences for natural, non-GMO, and sustainably sourced ingredients. Organic sweeteners appeal to consumers seeking products free of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), aligning with their health values, sustainability, and ethical consumption. For example, in 2023, MycoTechnology extracted honey from a white honey truffle discovered in Hungary. Several commercial food manufacturers are excited to work with the company to develop and launch new products. Such collaboration enables food and beverage manufacturers to launch clean-label, healthier products.

Furthermore, regulatory bodies and certification agencies are essential in determining the authenticity and quality of organic sweeteners and ensuring compliance with organic standards and labeling requirements. Certifications such as USDA Organic, EU Organic, and JAS Organic assure consumers that organic sugar products meet stringent production and processing standards, which boosts consumer confidence and market growth.

Regional Analysis

The global industrial sugar market analysis is conducted in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

Asia-Pacific Dominates the Global Market

Asia-Pacific is the most significant global industrial sugar market shareholder and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% over the forecast period. The market is expanding rapidly, owing to increased demand for sugary confectionery products and soft drinks, particularly in urban areas. India, followed by Indonesia and China, is expected to experience regional solid growth as the population grows and consumers' disposable incomes rise. Sugar-rich confectionery products like baked goods, ice cream, and mithai are becoming increasingly popular in India.

Furthermore, Asia's sugar cane production in 2023 was 706,898.48 tonnes, representing an increase over previous years. In 2022/23, Asia was the world's largest sugar producer, producing nearly 60 million metric tons. India, Thailand, and China were the region's largest sugar producers. 

Europe is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 6.1% over the forecast period. The European Union (EU) is the world's largest beet sugar producer, accounting for roughly half the total. In 2023/24, the EU's beet sugar production is expected to be 15.4 million metric tons (MMT), a 3% increase over the drought-affected 2022/23 but 7% lower than 2021/22. This is due to lower beet acreage in France and higher plantings in other member states. The region had a sugar production quota, which was eliminated in late 2016, resulting in increased production. This is expected to reduce the sugar production cost, fueling market growth over the forecast period. Sugar demand is likely to rise in Russia, owing to domestically produced confectionary products and homemade alcohol.

The North American market is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. Sugar consumption has decreased in North American countries such as the United States and Canada due to rising demand for sugar-free and low-sugar alternatives. This region's increasing number of health-conscious consumers is expected to drive steady sugar market growth. 

Latin America holds a significant market share. Brazil is one of the largest sugar producers. Despite having significantly lower per capita consumption than other regions, such as Asia-Pacific, the region's demand for sugar is gradually increasing. Consumer demand for confectioneries and beverages constantly increases, which drives regional market growth. Furthermore, other Latin American countries, such as Colombia, Argentina, and Chile, are experiencing high sugar demand due to increased demand for processed foods.

The Middle East and African sugar industry is one of the fastest-growing markets. This region's ever-evolving food processing sector is the primary driver of market growth. Bakery products, desserts, dairy products, and beverages are becoming increasingly popular in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Sugar demand has risen significantly in recent years due to the growth of the region's strong dairy sector. Increasing demand for ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook products will drive the market during the forecast period.

Segmental Analysis

The global industrial sugar market is segmented based on source, type, and application.

The market is further segmented by source into Cane Sugar and beet Sugar.

Sugarcane is expected to be the main crop used in sugar production. It is grown primarily in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and South America. Cane sugar is known for its natural sweetness and unique flavor profile, which varies depending on soil, climate, and processing methods. It is widely used in the food and beverage industry, confectionery, baking, and culinary applications. Cane sugar comes in various forms, including granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses, providing versatility and flavor diversity to consumers and food manufacturers. Sugarcane production is expected to rise during the forecast period, driven by area expansion and yield improvements. According to the OECD and FAO, sugarcane accounts for approximately 86% of total sugar crop production. 

Sugar beets are typically grown in temperate zones. Beet sugar is made from sugar beets, a root vegetable that grows primarily in temperate regions like Europe, North America, and Russia. Sugar beets have a high sucrose concentration, making them a valuable source of sugar for industrial processing. Beet molasses and sugar are widely used to make various products, including food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and textiles. However, rising input costs from improved harvesting technologies and shrinking cultivated areas are expected to limit beet production growth in the coming years.

The market is fragmented based on type into White Sugar, Brown Sugar, and Liquid Sugar.

White sugar is widely used in the food processing and baking industries. White sugar, refined or granulated sugar, is thoroughly processed to remove impurities and achieve high purity. It is the most common and widely used type of sugar, distinguished by its fine crystalline texture and neutral flavor. White sugar is helpful in various food and beverage applications, including baking, confectionery, beverage sweetening, and culinary preparation. It adds sweetness, texture, and stability to food products and is preferred because it dissolves easily in liquids. White sugar comes in various particle sizes, from fine to coarse, to suit different applications and processing needs.

Brown sugar is a partially refined sugar that contains some of the natural molasses and moisture found in sugar cane or sugar beet juice. It has a distinct brown color and a rich, caramel-like flavor profile that the molasses content enhances. Brown sugar is frequently used in baking, confectionery, sauces, marinades, and savory dishes to enhance flavor and moisture. It comes in two varieties: light brown sugar, which has less molasses and a milder taste, and dark brown sugar, which has more molasses and a more robust, more intense flavor. Brown sugar is highly valued for its distinct flavor and versatility in sweet and savory culinary applications.

The market can be bifurcated by application into beverages, candy, bakery, and dairy products.

Confectionary has the highest revenue share due to its high global consumption. Candies, chocolates, chewing gum, gummies, and other sweet treats made primarily with industrial sugar are examples of confectionery products. Sugar is essential in confectionery manufacturing, providing sweetness, texture, and structure to various candy formulations. Whether it's the crisp texture of hard candies, the smooth mouthfeel of chocolates, or the chewiness of gummies, industrial sugar enhances confectionery products' sensory experience and indulgence. Confectionery manufacturers use various types of industrial sugar, such as white sugar, brown sugar, and liquid sugar, to achieve the desired flavor, texture, and appearance in their products.

In recent years, the popularity of sweet confectionery has grown significantly in countries such as China, India, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The growth is primarily due to the increasing discretionary income of the population in these countries. Consumers today are willing to pay more for high-quality, tasty, and flavorful products. 

The beverages segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, owing to the growing trend of healthy hydration in developed markets in Europe and North America. Beverages are a significant application segment for industrial sugar, including soft drinks, fruit juices, energy drinks, sports drinks, tea, coffee, and alcohol. Beverages use Industrial sugar to add sweetness and flavor while balancing acidity and bitterness. Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and sports drinks are increasingly popular among Asian millennials. The increasing demand for bakery products in Eastern markets is expected to fuel market growth in the coming years.

Recent Developments

• March 2024- The Louis Dreyfus Company launched its new fresh fruit juice brand, Montebelo Brasil, exclusively to the French market.
• April 2024- Tereos unveiled an Innovation Center for European customers.