ICUMSA 45 Sugar Price Per Ton 2025: Complete Market Analysis & Live Pricing
- writer
- Jul 20
- 13 min read
Updated: Jul 30
This comprehensive guide provides icumsa 45 sugar price forecasts, real-time market insights and essential buying information for international traders and businesses.

Last Updated: July 19, 2025 | Live Market Data
Current ICUMSA 45 Sugar Prices (2025)
Live Market Overview
As of July 2025, ICUMSA 45 sugar prices are experiencing significant volatility due to global supply chain adjustments and seasonal demand patterns. Current market rates range from $285 to $520 per metric ton, depending on origin, contract terms, and delivery specifications.
As of July 2025, ICUMSA 45 sugar prices are experiencing significant volatility due to global supply chain adjustments and seasonal demand patterns. Current market rates range from $285 to $520 per metric ton, depending on origin, contract terms, and delivery specifications.
Current Price Ranges by Source:
Brazilian FOB Santos: $285-$320 per MT
Thai FOB Bangkok: $295-$335 per MT
Indian FOB Mumbai: $275-$310 per MT
European CIF Rotterdam: $450-$520 per MT
US Gulf CIF: $480-$550 per MT
Daily Price Tracker
Today's Benchmark Rates (July 19, 2025):
Source | FOB Price/MT | CIF Price/MT | Change (24h) |
Brazil (Raw) | $298 | $385 | ↑ +2.3% |
Thailand (Raw) | $312 | $395 | ↓ -1.1% |
India (Refined) | $289 | $375 | ↑ +0.8% |
EU (Refined) | - | $485 | ↓ -0.5% |
USA (Refined) | - | $515 | ↑ +1.2% |
Prices shown are indicative wholesale rates for 25,000+ MT contracts. Smaller quantities command premium pricing.
Live Market Data Sources:
International Sugar Organization (ISO)Â - Official global sugar statistics
ICE Futures Exchange - Real-time sugar futures pricing
Trading Economics Sugar Prices - Historical and current price data
Price Alert System
Current market conditions suggest increased volatility through Q3 2025 due to:
Brazilian harvest completion affecting supply
Monsoon impacts on Indian production
Energy cost fluctuations affecting transportation
Currency exchange rate movements
Critical Price Levels to Watch:
Support Level: $275/MT (historical low for 2025)
Resistance Level: $550/MT (transportation cost ceiling)
Average Trading Range: $290-$340/MT FOB
2025 Sugar Market Forecast & Price Predictions
Monthly Price Projections Through 2025
Based on comprehensive market analysis incorporating weather patterns, production forecasts, and global demand trends, our price predictions for the remainder of 2025 are:
Q3 2025 (July-September):
July: $285-$330/MT (current)
August: $290-$340/MT (seasonal demand increase)
September: $295-$350/MT (pre-harvest speculation)
Q4 2025 (October-December):
October: $280-$325/MT (harvest pressure)
November: $275-$315/MT (peak harvest)
December: $285-$330/MT (year-end restocking)
Seasonal Trend Analysis
ICUMSA 45 sugar prices follow predictable seasonal patterns influenced by:
Peak Price Periods:
March-May: Pre-harvest speculation drives prices up 8-12%
August-September: Increased industrial demand before harvest
December-January: Holiday consumption and inventory building
Low Price Periods:
June-July: Post-harvest supply abundance
October-November: Peak harvest season globally
February: Post-holiday demand decline
Expert Market Predictions
Leading commodity analysts project:
Short-term (3-6 months):
Price volatility to remain high due to weather uncertainties
Brazilian real strength supporting higher FOB prices
Transportation costs stabilizing around current levels
Medium-term (6-12 months):
Gradual price normalization as supply chains adjust
Increased focus on sustainable production affecting premiums
Technology adoption reducing production costs by 3-5%
Long-term (12+ months):
Climate change adaptation costs built into pricing
Alternative sweetener competition limiting price growth
Regional trade agreements reshaping global flows
Economic Factors Affecting Pricing
Primary Price Drivers:
Crude Oil Prices: Direct correlation with transportation costs
Currency Exchange Rates: USD strength impacts global pricing
Weather Patterns: El Niño/La Niña effects on production
Trade Policies: Tariffs and trade agreements
Energy Costs: Refining and transportation expenses
Supply/Demand Balance Analysis:
Global production: 185.2 million MT (2024/25 season)
Global consumption: 178.8 million MT
Surplus: 6.4 million MT (supporting current price levels)
ICUMSA 45 Sugar: Complete Buyer's Guide
What is ICUMSA 45 Sugar
ICUMSA 45 is the highest quality refined white sugar available in the global market. The name refers to the International Commission for Uniform Methods of Sugar Analysis (ICUMSA)Â color scale, where 45 represents the maximum color allowed in International Units (IU).
Key Characteristics:
Color: Maximum 45 IU (crystal white appearance)
Polarization: Minimum 99.8°
Moisture Content: Maximum 0.04%
Ash Content: Maximum 0.04%
Solubility: 99.9% dry substance
Quality Specifications and Standards
Complete ICUMSA 45 Specifications:
Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
Polarization | Min 99.8° Z | ICUMSA GS 2/3-1 |
Solution Color | Max 45 IU | ICUMSA GS 2/3-10 |
Ash Content | Max 0.04% | ICUMSA GS 2/3-17 |
Moisture | Max 0.04% | ICUMSA GS 2/1/3/9-15 |
Invert Sugar | Max 0.04% | ICUMSA GS 2/3-8 |
Conductivity Ash | Max 20 IU | ICUMSA GS 2/3-17 |
Sulphur Dioxide | Max 20 mg/kg | ICUMSA GS 2/3-15 |
Sediments | Max 20 mg/kg | ICUMSA GS 2/3-21 |
Shelf Life and Storage Requirements
Storage Conditions:
Temperature: 18-24°C (64-75°F)
Humidity: Maximum 65% RH
Ventilation: Adequate air circulation required
Protection: Away from direct sunlight and moisture
Pest Control: Regular inspection and treatment
Shelf Life Guidelines:
Optimal Conditions: 24-36 months
Standard Warehouse: 18-24 months
Tropical Climates: 12-18 months
Bulk Storage: 12-24 months depending on facility
Quality Degradation Factors:
Moisture absorption leading to clumping
Color deterioration under UV exposure
Contamination from improper storage
Pest infestation in poorly maintained facilities
Packaging and Shipping Considerations
Standard Packaging Options:
Bulk Shipping:
Vessel Capacity: 10,000-50,000 MT per shipment
Container: Food-grade bulk containers
Loading: Pneumatic conveyor systems
Documentation: Full SGS inspection certificates
Bagged Options:
50kg PP/PE Bags: Most common for retail distribution
25kg Paper Bags: Premium packaging for food service
1000kg Big Bags: Industrial users and repackaging
Custom Packaging: Available for specific requirements
Shipping Terms:
FOB (Free on Board): Buyer responsible for shipping and insurance
CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight): Seller covers shipping to destination port
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): Complete door-to-door service
Certification Requirements
Mandatory Certifications:
SGS Inspection Certificate: Quality verification
Phytosanitary Certificate: Agricultural safety compliance
Certificate of Origin: Trade documentation
Bill of Lading: Shipping documentation
Commercial Invoice: Commercial transaction record
Optional Quality Certifications:
ISO 22000 Certification: Food safety management
HACCP Certification: Hazard analysis compliance
Organic Certification: For organic sugar varieties
Fair Trade Certification: Ethical sourcing verification
Kosher/Halal Certification: Religious compliance
Regional Price Analysis
Brazilian Icumsa 45 Sugar Prices
Brazil dominates global sugar exports with approximately 45% market share. The country's pricing mechanisms significantly influence global rates.
Current Brazilian Market (July 2025):
FOB Santos: $295-$310/MT
Production Cost: $185-$205/MT
Export Volume: 28.5 million MT (projected 2025)
Harvest Season: April-December
Price Influencing Factors:
Brazilian Real Exchange Rate: BRL/USD currently at 5.2
Ethanol Competition: Sugar vs ethanol production decisions
Weather Conditions: Center-South region rainfall patterns
Production Costs: Labor, fuel, and fertilizer expenses
Market Outlook: Brazilian producers are optimizing sugar production over ethanol due to favorable international prices. The 2025 harvest is projected at 42.5 million MT, supporting stable export pricing through Q4 2025.
Thailand Sugar Market
Thailand ranks as the world's second-largest sugar exporter, contributing approximately 14% of global exports.
Current Thai Market Analysis:
FOB Bangkok: $305-$320/MT
Production Volume: 10.8 million MT (2024/25)
Export Capacity: 7.2 million MT
Harvest Period: November-April
Unique Market Characteristics:
Government Intervention: Price support mechanisms
Processing Efficiency: Advanced refining technology
Quality Premium: Consistent ICUMSA 45 specifications
Regional Demand: Strong Asian market presence
India Sugar Export Prices
India has emerged as a major sugar exporter, with production exceeding domestic consumption significantly.
Current Indian Market:
FOB Mumbai: $275-$295/MT
Government Policy: Export quotas and minimum selling prices
Production Volume: 32.8 million MT (2024/25)
Export Potential: 6-8 million MT
Market Dynamics:
Monsoon Dependency: Rainfall patterns affect production
Government Support: MSP (Minimum Support Price) mechanisms
Infrastructure Challenges: Port capacity and transportation
Quality Consistency: Improving but variable across regions
EU Sugar Import Prices
The European Union operates as a net importer, with strict quality standards and preferential trading arrangements.
Current EU Market:
CIF Rotterdam: $450-$485/MT
Import Volume: 2.5-3.0 million MT annually
Quality Requirements: Strict ICUMSA 45 compliance
Tariff Structure: Everything But Arms (EBA) preferences
Market Characteristics:
Quality Premium: Higher prices for certified organic
Sustainability Focus: Increasing demand for certified sustainable sugar
Regulatory Compliance: Strict food safety requirements
Supply Partnerships: Long-term supplier relationships
USA Sugar Market Analysis
The US sugar market operates under a complex system of quotas, tariffs, and domestic price supports.
Current US Market:
CIF Gulf Coast: $510-$545/MT
Import Quota System: Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) limitations
Domestic Price: $620-$680/MT
Market Protection: High tariffs on over-quota imports
Unique Factors:
USDA Programs: Price support and loan programs
Trade Agreements: NAFTA/USMCA preferential access
Domestic Production: 45% self-sufficiency
Industrial Demand: Food and beverage manufacturing
Price Comparison Tools
Interactive Pricing Calculator
To assist buyers in determining total landed costs, consider these calculation factors:
Base FOB Price Calculation:
Base Sugar Price: $300/MT (example)
+ Export Charges: $15/MT
+ Inspection Fees: $8/MT
+ Documentation: $5/MT
= FOB Price: $328/MT
CIF Price Calculation:
FOB Price: $328/MT
+ Ocean Freight: $75/MT (varies by route)
+ Marine Insurance: $3/MT
+ Loading Charges: $12/MT
= CIF Price: $418/MT
Total Landed Cost:
CIF Price: $418/MT
+ Port Charges: $25/MT
+ Customs Duty: Variable by country
+ Inland Transport: $30/MT (average)
+ Storage/Handling: $15/MT
= Total Landed Cost: $488/MT+ (excluding duties)
Historical Price Charts Analysis
5-Year Price Trend (2020-2025):
2020 Average: $285/MT (pandemic impact)
2021 Average: $425/MT (supply chain recovery)
2022 Average: $520/MT (conflict-related peaks)
2023 Average: $385/MT (normalization period)
2024 Average: $345/MT (supply stability)
2025 YTD: $315/MT (current market)
Price Volatility Indicators:
Standard Deviation: 15-20% annual price variation
Maximum Range: $195/MT (2022 high-low spread)
Seasonal Variation: 8-12% peak-to-trough difference
Currency Impact: 5-8% due to USD fluctuations
Currency Conversion Impact
Major Trading Currency Effects:
USD Strength Impact:
10% USD appreciation = 8-12% price increase for importers
Benefits US buyers, challenges emerging market importers
Affects competitiveness of non-USD origin countries
Regional Currency Considerations:
Brazilian Real: BRL weakness supports competitive FOB pricing
Thai Baht: Stability provides predictable pricing
Indian Rupee: Depreciation enhances export competitiveness
Euro: Strength increases European import costs
Bulk Pricing Calculators
Volume-Based Pricing Tiers:
Quantity (MT) | Price Discount | Example Price |
1,000-2,499 | Base Price | $320/MT |
2,500-4,999 | -2% | $314/MT |
5,000-9,999 | -4% | $307/MT |
10,000-24,999 | -6% | $301/MT |
25,000+ | -8% | $294/MT |
Contract Term Discounts:
Spot Purchase: Base pricing
3-Month Contract: 1-2% discount
6-Month Contract: 2-4% discount
Annual Contract: 3-6% discount
Multi-year Contract: 5-8% discount
Market Factors Affecting ICUMSA 45 Prices
Weather and Crop Conditions
Climate Impact Analysis:
El Niño Effects (2024-2025):
Reduced rainfall in Brazil's Center-South region
Potential 5-8% production decrease in key areas
Price premium of $15-25/MT during affected periods
Alternative origin demand increases
Monsoon Patterns:
Indian production heavily dependent on monsoon timing
Delayed monsoon: 10-15% yield reduction potential
Excess rainfall: Quality concerns and harvesting delays
Price volatility of 8-12% during critical periods
Global Warming Trends:
Shifting cultivation zones affecting traditional producers
Increased investment in irrigation and climate control
Long-term production cost increases of 2-3% annually
Quality maintenance challenges in extreme weather
Global Trade Policies and Tariffs
Current Trade Environment:
WTO Sugar Agreement:
Gradual reduction in domestic support measures
Export subsidy elimination commitments
Market access improvements for developing countries
Dispute resolution mechanisms for trade conflicts
Regional Trade Agreements:
Tariff Structures:
US Raw Sugar: $0.35/kg over-quota tariff
EU Refined Sugar: €419/MT standard tariff
Japan Sugar Imports: ¥71.8/kg variable levy
China Sugar Tariff: 15-20% depending on origin
Currency Fluctuations Impact
Exchange Rate Sensitivity:
Major Currency Correlations:
USD/BRL: 10% real weakness = 5-7% FOB price reduction
USD/THB: Thai baht stability provides price predictability
USD/INR: Rupee depreciation enhances Indian competitiveness
USD/EUR: Euro strength increases European import costs
Hedging Strategies:
Forward Contracts: Price and currency protection
Options Contracts: Flexible hedging with premium cost
Natural Hedging: Matching currency exposures
Currency Swaps: Long-term protection mechanisms
Energy Costs and Transportation
Transportation Cost Analysis:
Ocean Freight Rates:
Brazil-Europe: $65-85/MT (seasonal variation)
Thailand-Middle East: $45-65/MT
India-Africa: $35-55/MT
Global Average: $55-75/MT
Fuel Cost Impact:
Refining Energy: 12-15% of production costs
Transportation Fuel: Direct correlation with crude oil
Port Operations: Electricity and handling equipment
Storage Facilities: Climate control energy requirements
Infrastructure Considerations:
Port Capacity: Loading efficiency and demurrage costs
Railway Networks: Inland transportation alternatives
Trucking Costs: Last-mile delivery expenses
Storage Facilities: Strategic location and capacity
Alternative Sweetener Competition
Market Share Analysis:
Sweetener Market Breakdown:
Sugar (All Types): 68% market share
High Fructose Corn Syrup: 18%
Artificial Sweeteners: 10%
Natural Alternatives: 4%
Price Competition Factors:
HFCS Price Parity: Generally 15-20% below sugar
Stevia Premium: 200-300% above sugar pricing
Artificial Sweeteners: 50-80% cost savings in applications
Monk Fruit: 400-500% premium over sugar
Industry Adaptation:
Food Manufacturing: Blend optimization for cost savings
Beverage Industry: Formulation adjustments for health trends
Confectionery: Quality maintenance versus cost control
Industrial Applications: Price sensitivity and switching costs
How to Buy ICUMSA 45 Sugar
Verified Suppliers Directory
Supplier Verification Checklist:
Primary Documentation Requirements:
Business Registration: Valid company incorporation documents
Export License: Government-issued export authorization
Financial References: Bank attestations and credit ratings
Production Capacity: Facility certifications and capacity proof
Quality Certifications: SGS, ISO, and other relevant certifications
Due Diligence Process:
Step 1: Initial Verification
Company registration verification through local authorities
Physical address confirmation and facility inspection
Management team background checks
Financial stability assessment
Step 2: Production Capability Assessment
Factory visit or third-party inspection
Production capacity verification
Quality control system evaluation
Supply chain reliability assessment
Step 3: Commercial Track Record
Previous client references and testimonials
Export volume history and consistency
Quality complaint resolution history
On-time delivery performance records
Leading Global Suppliers
Major Brazilian Exporters:
Copersucar: 4.5 million MT annual capacity
Grupo Cristal: 2.8 million MT capacity
Usinas Batatais: 1.5 million MT capacity
Noble Group: Integrated trading operations
Thai Sugar Exporters:
Mitr Phol Group: 1.8 million MT capacity
Khonburi Sugar: 1.2 million MT capacity
Kaset Thai Sugar: 800,000 MT capacity
Thai Roong Ruang: 600,000 MT capacity
Indian Sugar Exporters:
Shree Renuka Sugars: 1.5 million MT capacity
Bajaj Hindusthan: 1.2 million MT capacity
Balrampur Chini Mills: 800,000 MT capacity
Dalmia Bharat Sugar: 600,000 MT capacity
Contract Negotiation Tips
Essential Contract Terms:
Price and Payment Terms:
Price Basis: FOB/CIF clearly defined
Payment Method: Letter of Credit terms
Price Validity: Duration and revision clauses
Currency: USD standard for international trade
Quality Specifications:
ICUMSA Standards: Detailed specification compliance
Inspection Protocol: SGS or equivalent third-party inspection
Quality Tolerance: Acceptable variation parameters
Rejection Procedures: Quality failure resolution process
Delivery Terms:
Shipping Schedule: Loading dates and laycan periods
Force Majeure: Weather and operational delays
Demurrage/Detention: Port delay responsibility
Insurance Coverage: Cargo protection requirements
Risk Management Clauses:
Performance Bonds: Supplier guarantee mechanisms
Penalty Clauses: Non-performance consequences
Arbitration Terms: Dispute resolution procedures
Governing Law: Legal jurisdiction specification
Quality Assurance Procedures
Pre-Shipment Inspection Process:
Step 1: Production Monitoring
Raw material quality verification
Process parameter monitoring
Batch-by-batch quality control
Pre-packaging inspection
Step 2: SGS Inspection Protocol
Sampling Procedure: Representative sample collection
Laboratory Analysis: Complete specification testing
Certificate Issuance: Quality confirmation documentation
Quantity Verification: Weight and packaging confirmation
Step 3: Loading Supervision
Container Inspection: Cleanliness and condition verification
Loading Process: Contamination prevention procedures
Seal Verification: Container security and integrity
Documentation Check: Complete paperwork verification
Payment Terms and Methods
International Payment Methods:
Letter of Credit (L/C):
Irrevocable L/C: Standard for sugar trading
Confirmed L/C: Additional bank confirmation
Transferable L/C: Trading company requirements
Red Clause L/C: Advance payment facility
Documentary Collections:
Documents Against Payment (D/P): Payment on document presentation
Documents Against Acceptance (D/A): Deferred payment terms
Risk Considerations: Lower security than L/C
Cost Advantages: Reduced banking fees
Payment Security Measures:
Bank Guarantees: Payment security instruments
Insurance Coverage: Credit insurance protection
Escrow Services: Third-party payment holding
Trade Finance: Banking support for transactions
Typical Payment Terms:
100% L/C at Sight: Standard for new relationships
80% L/C + 20% TT: Established supplier arrangements
Advance Payment: 10-30% for contract security
Deferred Payment: 30-90 days for regular customers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current price of ICUMSA 45 sugar per ton?
As of July 19, 2025, ICUMSA 45 sugar prices range from $275-$320/MT FOB for major producing origins (Brazil, Thailand, India) and $375-$520/MT CIF for delivered prices to major importing regions. Prices vary based on quantity, contract terms, and delivery specifications.
What factors affect ICUMSA 45 sugar pricing?
The primary factors influencing ICUMSA 45 sugar prices include:
Production Costs: Raw material, energy, and processing expenses
Weather Conditions: Drought, floods, and seasonal patterns affecting crop yields
Currency Exchange Rates: USD strength/weakness against producer currencies
Transportation Costs: Ocean freight rates and fuel prices
Global Demand: Economic growth and consumption patterns
Trade Policies: Tariffs, quotas, and trade agreements
Alternative Sweeteners: Competition from HFCS and artificial sweeteners
How is ICUMSA 45 sugar quality verified?
ICUMSA 45 sugar quality is verified through:
SGS Inspection: Third-party quality certification at origin
Laboratory Analysis: Testing for color, polarization, ash, and moisture content
Certificate Issuance: Official quality compliance documentation
Batch Tracking: Production lot identification and traceability
Destination Inspection: Optional quality verification at discharge port
Quality parameters must meet strict ICUMSA 45 specifications including maximum 45 IU color, minimum 99.8° polarization, and maximum 0.04% moisture content.
What is the shelf life of ICUMSA 45 sugar?
ICUMSA 45 sugar shelf life depends on storage conditions:
Optimal Storage (18-24°C, <65% humidity): 24-36 months
Standard Warehouse: 18-24 months
Tropical Climate: 12-18 months
Bulk Storage: 12-24 months
Proper storage requires protection from moisture, direct sunlight, and contamination. Quality degradation typically involves color changes, clumping, and potential pest infestation rather than spoilage.
What's the difference between FOB and CIF pricing?
FOB (Free on Board):
Seller responsibility ends at loading port
Buyer arranges and pays for shipping and insurance
Price excludes transportation costs
Lower quoted price but additional costs for buyer
CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight):
Seller arranges and pays for shipping to destination port
Includes ocean freight and marine insurance
Higher quoted price but fewer additional costs
More convenient for buyers but less cost control
Example: Brazilian sugar FOB Santos $300/MT vs CIF Rotterdam $385/MT (including $75/MT freight and $10/MT insurance/handling).
How much is sugar trading for today globally?
Current global sugar trading ranges (July 19, 2025):
Prices fluctuate daily based on weather reports, production forecasts, currency movements, and global economic conditions. Professional traders monitor multiple exchanges and pricing sources for accurate market positioning.
What quantity minimums apply for ICUMSA 45 purchases?
Typical Minimum Order Quantities:
Container Loads: 25-27 MT (single container)
Break Bulk: 1,000-2,500 MT minimum
Vessel Charters: 10,000-50,000 MT
Spot Purchases: 5,000-12,500 MT common
Volume-Based Pricing:
Small quantities (25-1,000 MT): Premium pricing
Medium volumes (1,000-5,000 MT): Standard rates
Large contracts (10,000+ MT): Discount pricing
Annual agreements: Additional 2-5% discounts
How do I verify a sugar supplier's legitimacy?
Supplier Verification Process:
Company Registration: Verify business incorporation and export licenses
Physical Verification: Confirm factory location and production capacity
Financial References: Check bank attestations and credit ratings
Quality Certifications: Validate SGS approvals and ISO certifications
Track Record: Review previous export performance and client references
Site Inspection: Conduct factory visits or third-party inspections
Trade References: Contact previous buyers for performance feedback
Red Flags to Avoid:
Prices significantly below market rates
Reluctance to provide verifiable documentation
No physical factory address or inspection access
Payment requests outside standard trade finance methods
Missing or expired quality certifications
This comprehensive guide provides current market intelligence for ICUMSA 45 sugar pricing and procurement. Prices and market conditions are subject to daily changes based on global supply and demand factors. For the most current pricing and specific procurement requirements, consult with qualified commodity traders and verified suppliers.
Market Data Sources:Â International Sugar Organization (ISO), ICE Futures, Brazilian Sugar Exporters Association (ASSOVECO), Office of the Cane and Sugar Board, Thailand, Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA), SGS International, and proprietary market intelligence networks.
Additional Resources:
Commodity Research and Analysis - S&P Global Platts commodity insights
Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS)Â - G20 initiative for market transparency
International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)Â - Food security and agriculture research
World Bank Commodity Markets - Global commodity price data and forecasts
Disclaimer:Â This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Actual trading decisions should be based on current market conditions, professional advice, and comprehensive due diligence. Market prices are indicative and may vary significantly based on specific contract terms and conditions.