• India will assume the chairmanship of the International Sugar Organisation (ISO) for 2024.

• India is the largest consumer and second largest producer of sugar in the world.

• With Brazil in the western hemisphere, India is the market leader in eastern hemisphere for the sugar market.

• In its 63rd council meeting, ISO, headquartered in London, has announced India to be the chair of the organisation for 2024. 

• While attending the ISO Council Meeting, Union Food Secretary Sanjeev Chopra sought support and cooperation from all member countries during its period of chairmanship of ISO in 2024.

• The focus would be on bringing together all member countries to adopt more sustainable practices in sugarcane cultivation, sugar and ethanol production and better utilisation of byproducts.

• With about 15 per cent share in global sugar consumption and about 20 per cent production of sugar, Indian sugar trends affect the global markets profusely. 

International Sugar Organisation

• The International Sugar Organisation (ISO) is an inter-governmental body devoted to improving conditions on the world’s sugar market. 

• The headquarters of ISO is situated in London.

• The ISO was established under the International Sugar Agreement, 1968. 

• The agreement was amended several times.

• There are 87 member states.

• The organisation functions through the International Sugar Council, its Administrative Committee and its executive director and staff. The International Sugar Council consists of all the members of the organisation.

• The ISO administers the internationally negotiated 1992 International Sugar Agreement (ISA).

The objectives of the agreement are: 

i) Ensure enhanced international cooperation in connection with world sugar matters and related issues.

ii) Provide a forum for inter-governmental consultations on sugar and on ways to improve the world sugar economy.

iii) Facilitate trade by collecting and providing information on the world sugar market and other sweeteners.

iv) Encourage increased demand for sugar, particularly for non-traditional uses.

Manorama Yearbook app is now available on Google Play Store and iOS App Store