Cane production in 2008/09 amounted to 19.2 million tons, representing a marginal reduction compared to the previous season due to drier growing conditions. However, over the longer term, annual production is also being affected by the employment of traditional cane growing regions for other uses and by the uncertainty created by unsettled land claims. 

Sugar production of 2.3 million tons in South Africa was similar to last year, benefiting from conducive conditions during the crushing season.

Domestic sales growth continued in 2008/09, despite the increased presence of duty-paid imports in this sector of the market.

Good demand from manufacturers of sugar-containing products during 2008/09 resulted in increased industrial sales.