Texas Tech Updates Study Of Foreign Sugar Subsidies

Texas Tech University has released an update to its 2019 report examining government support for sugar industries around the world. The study, authored by Texas Tech’s International Center for Agricultural Competitiveness, examines policies affecting sugar production in 29 countries representing more than 86% of global sugar production and 87% of exports.

The researchers say direct foreign sugar subsidies have nearly doubled since 2005, rising from an average of $770 million to nearly $1.4 billion in 2024.  The study also finds every country examined uses import tariffs or quotas to protect its sugar industry.

The report added nine countries have ethanol or biofuel blending mandates, while governments play a significant role in setting sugar prices in several countries. The study is intended to provide information for U.S. trade negotiators and lawmakers examining competition in the global sugar market. The researchers say foreign government policies can influence global sugar prices and trade.

Click Here to read that updated Texas Tech report.

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