China’s sugar imports jump 39% in October, government data shows

China’s sugar imports in October rose 39% to 750,000 tonnes, bringing total arrivals for the year to 3.9 million tonnes, according to Chinese customs data released this Tuesday, the 18th. From January to October, Chinese sugar imports increased 14%.

China has taken advantage of lower sugar prices — which recently hit five-year lows on the New York exchange — to close deals.

“The recent decline in prices has increased opportunistic purchases by China, Indonesia and Indian refineries,” said Itaú BBA in a report published this Tuesday.

Brazil, the world’s largest sugar producer and exporter, has benefited from the growth in Chinese purchases.

According to data from the Brazilian government, China was the main destination for Brazil’s sugar exports in September, with 359,000 tonnes — many of which were likely recorded as Chinese imports in October.

Below is a historical overview of Brazilian sugar exports to China starting from 2023. The chart was prepared with DataLiner data:

Brazilian Sugar Exports to China | Jan 2023 to Sep 2025 | WTMT

Source: DataLiner (Click here to request a demo)

In October — when Brazil exported a record 4.2 million tonnes to all destinations — exports to China totaled 619,350 tonnes, making the Asian country the main buyer of Brazilian product last month, according to Brazilian government data.

Brazil’s sugar exports to China rose 58% in October compared with the same period last year, according to the Brazilian government.

Source: RPA News

Sharing is caring!