In a bid to ensure adequate sugar supply in 2026, Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc says it is considering extending its sugarcane crushing season into the rainy period, subject to favourable weather conditions.
The proposal comes amid concerns from stakeholders that this year’s delayed start to the crushing season may result in unprocessed cane at the close of operations, potentially leading to supply shortages in the first quarter of next year.
Speaking during the Growers Open Day held last week in Dwangwa, Illovo managing director Ronald Ngwira acknowledged past supply challenges but expressed confidence in the company’s current cane stock.
“We did experience a slight delay at the start, but supply should be stable,” Ngwira said. “We are working to debottleneck the factories and maximise operational time. If the rains allow, we will continue crushing until the season ends. We have sufficient cane to keep the factories running and are ensuring we have enough fuel and resources to sustain operations into 2026.”
Ngwira also cited national challenges such as illegal sugar exports and the delayed commencement of crushing as factors affecting production timelines.
While stakeholders welcomed the move as a potential boost for cane growers, they expressed reservations about its feasibility during the rainy season, citing labour and logistical constraints.
Lakeshore Cane Growers Association chairperson Robert Seyara said harvesting during the rainy season presents multiple challenges.
“Labour availability is a major concern. Typically, workers are released during the rains to focus on food production,” Seyara said. “Wet soil conditions also hinder truck movement, and burning cane leaves becomes difficult, which may result in trash entering the factory.”
Sugarcane Growers Association of Malawi president Robert Dziweni said growers would benefit from the extension, but warned that any disruption could impact sugar supply and pricing.
“This could influence local sugar prices. Sugarcane has a broad value chain—from ethanol and soft drinks to snacks and alcoholic beverages. A shortage would affect multiple sectors,” Dziweni said.
Consumers Association of Malawi executive director John Kapito echoed the concerns, stressing that Illovo’s management of this year’s crushing season is crucial to avoiding future shortages.
“Some regions are already experiencing sugar scarcity and high prices. A shutdown would worsen the situation. Illovo must continue production until the market is adequately supplied,” Kapito said.
In May, the Ministry of Trade and Industry blocked Illovo’s bid to export 6,000 metric tonnes of sugar following reports of acute domestic shortages.
