A review of South African sugarcane production the 2020/21 season

ABSTRACT

This paper characterises South African sugarcane production for the 2020/21 milling season from an agricultural perspective, in order to evaluate recent production strategies, and to identify priorities for improved efficiencies. The industry produced 18.22 million tons of cane, harvested from an estimated 254 028 ha (71.73 t/ha). The cane to sugar ratio was 8.89, and sugar production decreased from the 2019/20 season by 7%, to 2.28 million tons. After closing early in 2019/20, the Darnall Mill (along with Umzimkulu) remained closed in 2020/21, resulting in cane oversupply at some mills and considerable carryover tonnages. Cane quality improved in northern irrigated areas. Decreasing cane quality in the Noodsberg and UCL mill supply areas warrants investigation. Rainfall was generally below-average, with dry 2019 and 2020 winters;however, relief was offered by good spring/summer rains. Irrigation water supplies from the Bivane Dam and the Umhlatuze Catchment were significantly improved. The 2020 winter was particularly cold, and the Midlands cane was affected by frost. Eldana incidence decreased overall from the previous season, but flourished in carryover cane in the South Coast and Amatikulu regions. Smut prevalence was slightly higher than in 2019, and efforts to reduce these levels remain a priority in the northern parts of the industry, particularly in Pongola. A 19% increase in the Recoverable Value (RV) price saw a return to profitability for large- and small-scale growers alike. The negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on local sugarcane producers were minimal, and the increase in the RV price is partly attributed to COVID. The Sugar Industry Value Chain Master Plan also contributed to the increase in the RV price, by securing local sales and more effectively discouraging imports.