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Brazilian Sugar Manufacturers : Top 5 Sugar Exporters Brazil

Updated: Apr 6, 2023


Brazilian sugar manufacturers and exporters

Brazil is the world's largest producer and exporter of sugarcane with its tropical climate favoring sugar cane cultivation which is sensitive to climate, soil type, irrigation, fertilizers, insects, disease control, varieties, and the harvest period. Brazil accounts for over 23% of global sugar production and 49% of world exports.


Sugar shortages have plagued the global sugar market for decades, despite Brazil being one of the world's largest producers and exporters of sugar. Brazilian sugar manufacturers and exporters have consistently dominated the market and delivered high-quality sugar products due to the country's favorable climate and rich soil.



The Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association (UNICA) and the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex-Brasil) works to promote Brazilian products and services abroad, Sugarcane cultivated on the farm is been processed in the Brazilian sugar mill. The Brazilian manufacturing industry is made up of more than 400 sugar mills in the country's main sugar-manufacturing regions of Sao Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Paraná. These mills produce both sugar and ethanol extracted from sugarcane. Carry out and monitored by the Brazilian sugar manufacturers. The main type of sugar produced is raw and refined and account for over 23% of world sugar production in the market. Some of the top Brazilian sugar manufacturers include Copersucar, Cosan, and Raízen. Which has always been dominating the market


Top 5 Brazilian Sugar Exporters


Almost half of the sugar produced in Brazil is exported, accounting for over 23% of global sugar manufacturing. Brazil is the world's largest sugar exporter, with over 49% of its total sugar production being exported. Brazilian sugar associations are known for the high-quality sugar products they export to the market at competitive pricing with efficient distribution channels. Some of the top Brazilian sugar exporters include Copersucar, Cosan, and Alvean.


Top 5 Sugar Exporters in Brazil 2023


1. Copersucar

Based on statistics collected by Statista in 2021, Copersucar S.A. led the Brazilian sugar and ethanol sector in terms of net revenue, generating a total of 26.5 billion reals. This impressive figure highlights the company's dominance in the industry, as the largest sugar exporter in Brazil, accounting for more than 20% of the country's sugar exports. The company has a vast network of ports, terminals, and warehouses, which enables it to efficiently transport and distribute sugar to different parts of the world.


2. Raizen

Followed by Raizen the second-largest sugar exporter in Brazil which is a joint set between Shell and Cosan, accounting for around 10% of the country's sugar exports generating a total net revenue of 25.9 billion reals in 2021 and having a strong focus on innovation and technology.


3. Biosev

While Copersucar and Raizen are the top companies in the Brazilian sugar-alcohol sector, there are several other notable players that deserve recognition. These include:

Biosev is among the world leader in the sugar cane farming industry, which has 13 units located in major producing regions in Brazil. The company was founded in 2009 by the merging of LDC Bioenergia, Louis Dreyfus Commodities Group, with Santelisa Vale. It is the third largest sugar exporter in Brazil and generated a net revenue of 9.3 billion reals in 2021 based on the statistics provided.


4. Usina São Martinho

Usina São Martinho, located in the city of Pradópolis (SP), is one of the largest sugarcane processors in the world, crushing 10 million tons/harvest. With a net revenue of 5.5 billion reals from statistics making São Martinho another significant player in the Brazilian sugar-alcohol sector.


5. Usina São Francisco

Usina São Francisco is the fifth in this position. The Company transforms sugar cane juice into different-sized sucrose crystals and produces fuel, ethanol, and renewable electrical power. Usina Sao Francisco serves customers in Brazil. generated net revenue of 3.9 billion reals in 2021, cementing its position as one of the top companies in the industry.


The industry is made up of more than 400 sugar mills, most of which are located in the country's main sugar-producing regions, such as Sao Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Paraná. These mills produce both sugar and ethanol.


The Future of the Brazilian Sugar-Alcohol Sector


As the Brazilian sugar-alcohol sector continues to evolve, it is clear that these top companies will play a critical role in shaping its future. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and international expansion, these companies are well-positioned to maintain their dominance in the industry.


In this article, we will explore the factors that have contributed to the success of Brazilian sugar exporters, as well as the measures they have taken to ensure sustainability and maintain their competitive edge in the global market.


The Brazilian Advantage: Ideal Climate and Agricultural Expertise

Brazil's tropical climate, with its long hours of sunshine and abundant rainfall, provides the ideal conditions for sugarcane cultivation. The country's vast agricultural lands are also rich in nutrients, allowing for high yields of high-quality sugarcane.



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