Sugar is a class of sweet-tasting, soluble carbohydrates widely used in food. Common types include glucose, fructose, sucrose (table sugar), and lactose. Sucrose, extracted from sugarcane and sugar beets, is a disaccharide composed of glucose and fructose. Sugar is a natural plant-based ingredient that has been part of the human diet for thousands of years. It serves as a crucial energy source for the body, fueling vital functions.
Numerous companies manufacture and supply sugar globally. Major producers include Südzucker AG, Nordzucker AG, Wilmar International, American Crystal Sugar Company, and Global Organics. These companies operate across the sugar value chain, from cultivation and milling to refining and distribution. Global Organics partners with Natve in Brazil, sourcing organic cane sugar. Wilmar International has sugar operations in many countries including Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, India, Saudi Arabia, Myanmar, Brazil and China.
The price of white sugar has shown fluctuations. Recent wholesale prices have ranged from $0.96 to $1.32 USD per kg. According to recent data, white sugar is priced at $407.00 (USD). As of December 2025, market prices for raw sugar range from $440 to $510 per metric ton depending on the port, while refined sugar ranges from $490 to $550 per metric ton. Sugar is generally available worldwide due to its widespread production and use. It's found in various forms, including granulated, powdered, and liquid, catering to diverse applications in the food and beverage industries as well as home use.