Argentina's sugar industry achieved a record harvest in 2024, with exceptional production of cane, sugar, and alcohol, according to Jorge Freijó, president of the Argentine Sugar Center. However, internal prices have not improved, remaining at levels from two years ago. Freijó also advocated for stronger biofuel policies to boost the sector's future.
In an interview with Canal E, Jorge Freijó, president of the Argentine Sugar Center, analyzed the results of the 2024 harvest. "From a productive point of view, it's a very good harvest; weather conditions supported the milling period," he stated. The campaign will set a record in cane milling and alcohol production, estimated at over 600,000 cubic meters. Sugar exports will exceed 600,000 tons, matching the previous year's volume.
Despite this productive boom, internal sugar prices did not follow suit. "Unfortunately, in terms of prices, it wasn't a good year: sugar is very affected, with values repeating those from two years ago," Freijó explained. He attributed this to seasonal and financial imbalances: "In six months, the sector produces what the country consumes in twelve, and financing rates have not helped." He hopes that, with the end of the harvest, prices will adjust to rising costs.
Freijó also addressed the debate on the new biofuels law, supporting the project promoted by the League of Bioenergy Provinces. "Since last year, we have maintained a very firm position in support of the bill," he said. He highlighted the need for a more open and competitive market, comparing it to others: "Brazil today blends ethanol in gasoline at 30%, Paraguay also at 30%, the United States has generalized 15%, and India will reach 20% in a few years; we remain at 12%." He recalled that the policy started in 2006 created 50 industries through investments in biofuels. Cane sugar bioethanol supplies half of the 12% blend in gasoline, complemented by corn-based. "We believe biofuels are the path to a more sustainable and competitive future for Argentina," he concluded.