Expansion of sugarcane and sugar beet cultivation in 1991-2024: Evidence from FAOSTAT Data
Conference
10th International Conference on Agricultural Statistics
Format: CPS Abstract - ICAS 2026
Abstract
Sugarcane and sugar beet are the two dominant crops used in sugar production, each adapted to distinct agro-climatic zones. Sugarcane thrives primarily in tropical and subtropical regions, contributing approximately 80% of the world’s sugar supply. Key producers include Brazil, India, China, Thailand, and Pakistan. In contrast, sugar beet is cultivated mainly in temperate climates found in Europe and North America, accounting for the remaining 20% of global sugar production. Both crops have unique agronomic characteristics, resource requirements, and environmental footprints, making their respective cultivation patterns essential components of global sugar supply chains.
The expansion of sugarcane and sugar beet cultivation has significant implications for land use, water resources, and biodiversity. Sugarcane, in particular, is highly water-intensive and is often cultivated in regions already facing water scarcity, thereby increasing freshwater demand for irrigation and raising concerns about sustainable water management. Deforestation and conversion of natural habitats to agricultural land for sugar crops have been linked to biodiversity loss and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
Based on FAOSTAT data, this study will explore global patterns of sugar crop area harvested, identifying countries where expansion has been most pronounced over the past three decades and assessing the roles of technological innovations, government policies, and market forces in driving these changes. Moreover, policy incentives, including subsidies and biofuel mandates (especially for sugarcane-based ethanol), have further encouraged crop area growth. The rising demand for ethanol as a biofuel has been a particularly important driver in Brazil.
Furthermore, by utilizing Food Balance data, this paper will examine the rising availability of sugar for food consumption, which serves as an approximate indicator of actual sugar intake. It will analyze how this increased sugar availability correlates with dietary patterns, and it will explore the associated negative impacts on public health.