As the crushing season moves forward, sugar recovery rates in Punjab are improving steadily, driven by falling temperatures and higher sucrose levels in sugarcane across major producing regions. Cooler weather has supported better cane quality, providing relief to sugar mills and contributing to higher overall sugar output this season.
In several districts, sugar recovery rates have reached around 10 percent, reflecting both improved sucrose content and enhanced processing efficiency at mills. Analysts report that the recent drop in nighttime temperatures has played a key role in boosting sucrose accumulation, particularly in southern Punjab, where cooler conditions have been especially favorable for the crop.
Experts explain that night temperatures of 8–9°C slow the respiration rate of sugarcane, allowing more sucrose to accumulate in the stalk. This physiological change directly improves sugar recovery at mills. Central Punjab has also shown gradual improvement, with recovery rates now approaching 9 percent in most districts as weather conditions continue to support the crop.
According to market analysts, the highest sugar recovery rates have been recorded in the Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan divisions, while central Punjab continues to improve under favorable climatic conditions.
Rising sugar production has started to ease pressure on the domestic market. Wholesale and ex-mill sugar prices have declined in key markets, including Lahore, indicating improved supply availability. Better sugar availability has helped stabilize prices, and analysts expect further supply improvements to push retail prices lower in the coming weeks. Currently, retail sugar prices range between PKR 140 and PKR 145 per kilogram. Continued improvement in recovery rates and steady supply are expected to support market stability and provide relief to consumers as the crushing season continues across Punjab.
