Germany's Sugar Production Set to Rise Significantly

The 2024 sugar beet harvest season in Germany is off to a strong start, with forecasts indicating a significant increase in sugar production. The Economic Association of Sugar (WVZ) has projected that refined sugar production in the 2024/25 season will reach approximately 4.77 million metric tons, representing a substantial 13% increase from the previous season’s 4.22 million tons. This rise is largely due to expanded cultivation areas and favorable growing conditions throughout the year.

Expanded Cultivation and Increased Yields

German farmers have responded to the high sugar prices seen late last year by increasing their sugar beet plantings. The total area under sugar beet cultivation has expanded to 385,000 hectares, up 5.7% from the previous season. This increase in acreage, coupled with consistent yields, has led to an expected delivery of 31.59 million tons of beets to sugar factories, up from 29.81 million tons last season. The average yield per hectare is projected to be 81.9 tons, slightly higher than last year's 81.8 tons.

The sugar content of this year’s crop is also expected to improve, with an estimated 17.2%, compared to 16.4% in the previous season. These factors collectively contribute to the optimistic outlook for the 2024/25 sugar production season.

Disease Threats Could Impact Final Outcomes

Despite the promising start, the 2024 sugar beet campaign faces significant challenges. The warm and humid weather conditions that have benefited yield also increase the risk of leaf diseases, particularly Cercospora. Additionally, the spread of the reed glass wing planthopper from southern regions poses a serious threat. This insect is known to transmit bacterial infections like SBR and Stolbur, which can lead to leaf loss, the development of “rubber beets,” and substantial yield reductions.

The final results of the campaign will largely depend on the progression of these diseases, weather patterns, and the conditions during harvest. The WVZ has emphasized that the favorable water supply and adequate sunshine this year have so far contributed to a healthy crop, as indicated by test cuttings showing average sugar content and good yield potential.

Calls for Political Support and Sustainable Practices

Given the challenges posed by climate change, new pests, and diseases, the WVZ is calling for more robust political support. Dr. Stefan Streng, Chairman of the WVZ, underscores the need for an extensive toolkit in breeding, cultivation, and plant protection. He advocates for the adoption of new breeding techniques, a broad range of active ingredients, and the integration of digital technologies to ensure the industry’s resilience.

The DNZ (Association of North German Sugar Beet Growers) has also highlighted the importance of maintaining the competitiveness of domestic sugar beet farming. During a recent strategy meeting, DNZ committees discussed the need for sustainable practices in beet cultivation and the transition towards a greenhouse gas-neutral sugar industry. These initiatives, while necessary, are expected to lead to significant cost increases. DNZ Chairman Eckhard Hinrichs has urged policymakers to establish the necessary framework conditions to ensure that the competitiveness of local beet farming is not compromised.

Outlook for the 2024/25 Season

As the sugar beet harvesting season progresses, farmers and industry stakeholders remain cautiously optimistic. The combination of expanded cultivation, improved yields, and higher sugar content bodes well for the 2024/25 season. However, the industry must remain vigilant in addressing the disease threats and other challenges that could impact the final outcome of the harvest.