Unlike many other crops tied to specific seasonal cycles in one hemisphere, sugar is a unique commodity because it grows in both hemispheres simultaneously. Sugarcane, the primary source of raw sugar, thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, while sugar beets, grown in temperate climates, complement the global supply. This dual-hemisphere production creates a complex supply dynamic, with harvests occurring year-round but peaking at different times depending on the region. Brazil, the world's largest sugar producer, accounts for about 22.3% of global production in the 2023/24 season. Its sugarcane harvest typically runs from April to November, with peak output in June to August, flooding the market with supply during these months.
