The Evolution of the Sugar Industry in Mauritius: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction 

On Tuesday, February 4, 2025, the Société de Technologie Agricole et Sucrière de Maurice (STASM), in collaboration with Faculty of Agriculture of the University of Mauritius, hosted talks on the theme "From sugar to renewable biomass: the re-engineering of the Mauritian sugar industry." This event brought together experts, academics, students, and industry leaders to explore the transformative journey of one of Mauritius' most iconic industries. 

Associate Professor Joyce Govinden-Soulange, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, has also addressed the audience (click to read more) together with Professor Mohammad Issack Santally, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academia) of the University of Mauritius. (click here to read more)

Associate Professor Joyce Govinden-Soulange, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture

 

Professor Mohammad Issack Santally

 

The sugar industry has been a cornerstone of Mauritius' economy for centuries, shaping its history, society, and landscape. From its introduction by Dutch settlers in 1639 to its transformation into a renewable biomass sector, the industry reflects both the challenges of global competition and the opportunities of innovation, This lecture was delivered by Dr. Jean Claude Autrey, CSK, General Secretary of the International Society of Sugar Cane Technologists. (click here to read more)

Dr. Jean Claude Autrey, CSK

Mr Sebastien Giraud, Chief Marketing Officer of the Mauritius Sugar Syndicate, shared strategies for elevating Mauritius' sugars to new heights on the global stage. He discussed how The Mauritian sugar industry is strategically evolving from a commodity producer of white sugar to a global provider of high-quality, speciality, and sustainable unrefined sugars. This transformation is driven by market diversification, brand building, an emphasis on quality and authenticity, and a commitment to sustainable and ethical practices. The industry is actively working to position itself as a leader in the speciality sugar market, focusing on value rather than quantity. Click here to read more

 Mr Sebastien Giraud

In this speech, the President of the Société de Technologie Agricole et Sucriere de Maurice, STASM, Mr. Jean François Lagesse, emphasised on the importance of collaboration, innovation, and the need to engage young talent in shaping the future of agriculture in Mauritius. His speech also emphasised the history of the STA and its role in the agricultural sector.  Click here to read more

Mr. Jean François Lagesse

 

This blog post will highlight key takeaways from the various speeches and talks, focusing on the historical significance of the sugar industry in Mauritius, the challenges it faces today, and the opportunities ahead as the country pioneers advancements in renewable energy, biotechnology, and sustainable agriculture. 

 

Happy Reading to all!!!!

Celebrating Agriculture and Innovation: A Look at the Sugar Sector's Future with Assoc. Prof. Joyce Govinden Soulange

In her opening speech, Assoc. Prof. Joyce Govinden Soulange, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, highlighted that this gathering is particularly significant as it marked two key milestones: the 111th anniversary of the College of Agriculture, now the Faculty of Agriculture, and the 60th anniversary of the University of Mauritius. 

She highlighted the crucial role the sugar sector plays in driving the economy, employment, and sustainability of the region. She emphasized that the sugar industry is not just an agricultural commodity but a vital component of Mauritius socioeconomic development. 

The Dean also paid tribute to the Société de Technologie Agricole et Sucriere de Maurice (STASM), which has been a cornerstone of agricultural progress since its founding in 1910 (as a precursor organization) and formal establishment in 1951. "This society has played a crucial role in promoting agriculture in our country," she noted, adding that most of its members are proud alumni of the Faculty of Agriculture, underscoring the university's enduring influence on the sector.

Assoc. Prof. J.G.Soulange outlined the Faculty's commitment to supporting the sugar sector through several key initiatives:

• Integrating modern agricultural technologies, precision farming techniques, and sustainable resource management into academic programs and research.
• Bridging the gap between academia and industry to ensure research findings translate into practical applications benefiting farmers and businesses.
• Collaborating with STASM to create new opportunities for sustainable agricultural practices and support the sugar sector.

She stressed the importance of collaboration, stating, "By collaborating with STASM, we can create new opportunities for sustainable agricultural practices, support the sugar sector, and enhance our country's resilience in the face of global challenges." 

To the students, the Dean emphasized their critical role in shaping the future of agriculture. She encouraged them to absorb as much from the distinguished professionals and STASM alumni here today. Your participation will equip you with the insight and expertise needed to drive meaningful change in the field."

She stressed that this kind of event served as a platform for fostering meaningful conversations, networking, and collaboration among stakeholders. It underscored the Faculty's dedication to contributing to Mauritius socioeconomic development through research, innovation, and partnerships with industry and policymakers.

She concluded by saying that the Faculty of Agriculture remains committed to ensuring the sugar sector thrives, driving economic growth and environmental sustainability for generations to come.

 

From Sugar to Renewable Biomass – The Re-Engineering of Mauritius' Sugar Industry

Source Omnicane Website

This lecture was delivered by Jean Claude Autrey, General Secretary of the International Society of Sugar Cane Technologists, delves into how Mauritius is redefining its sugar sector, shifting from traditional sugar production to a renewable biomass industry that embraces sustainability and cutting-edge technology. 

 

 Key Points and Takeaways from the Presentation on Sugarcane Production in Mauritius

• Sugarcane originated in New Guinea and spread through Asia, the Mediterranean, and then to the Americas and Africa. The two main types are Saccharum officinarum (noble cane with high sugar content) and Saccharum spontaneum (wild cane, known for its vigor and adaptability). Crossbreeding between these two types led to hybrid varieties, with the "POJ 2878" cane from Java being particularly influential on most cultivated varieties today.
• The Dutch brought sugarcane from Java in 1639, initially for producing arrack but large-scale cultivation began under French rule (1715–1810) and expanded by the British (1810–1968).
• In 1921, Dutch researchers in Java created a new type of sugarcane by combining two species: one with high sugar content (Saccharum officinarum ) and another with strong disease resistance (Saccharum spontaneum ). The hybrid POJ 2878, increased sugarcane yields by 30–50% worldwide. In Mauritius, it raised production from 3.6 tons per hectare to 6.6 tons per hectare in the 1920s. Developed from early research in 1886, POJ 2878 changed how sugarcane was grown globally. A wonder ans Gane Changer Cane.
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• Sugar cane is a high-yield crop due to its large biomass, often producing over 40 tons per hectare.
• Sugar cane is grown in 115 countries, covering 27 million hectares, and accounts for 79.1% of global sugar production.
• Globally, sugar production in 2023/24 totalled 187 million tonnes, with sugarcane contributing 148 million tonnes (79.1%) and sugar beet accounting for 39 million tonnes. Brazil dominates the industry, producing 45 million tonnes annually on 10 million hectares, with 50% of its sugarcane area dedicated to bioethanol production. In contrast, Mauritius ranks 21st globally for sugarcane production, contributing only 238,854 tonnes in 2023 from 35863 ha, highlighting the country's relatively small scale and limited market share compared to leading producers.
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A New Era for Agriculture in Mauritius: STASM Looks to the Future

In his address, Mr. Jean François Lagesse, President of the Société de Technologie Agricole et Sucrière de Maurice (STASM) outlined the organization's history, current state, and future aspirations. His speech emphasized the importance of innovation, sustainability, and diversification in shaping the future of agriculture in Mauritius, while inviting young professionals and students to join STASM and contribute to this transformation.

Historical Context

Founded in 1910 as the Society of Chemists of Mauritius, STASM initially focused on the role of chemistry in sugar manufacturing. Over time, the organization evolved to include agricultural technicians, becoming the Society of Chemists and Agricultural Technicians of Mauritius in 1942. By 1951, it was renamed STASM. For nearly 75 years, the society has played a pivotal role in fostering communication and advancing agricultural sciences, particularly within the sugarcane industry.

Adapting to Change

While sugarcane remains central to Mauritius' identity and agricultural expertise, the industry has faced significant challenges in recent years. Recognizing these shifts, the society is reorienting its focus from traditional sugar production to a more innovative, sustainable, and diversified approach. This transition reflects the organization's commitment to staying relevant in an ever-changing global landscape.

In response, the committee has taken steps to revitalize the society, reenergize its mission, and attract new talent. A key component of this effort involves engaging younger generations, including students and young professionals, who are encouraged to join STASM and help shape the future of agriculture in Mauritius. 

 

Why Join STASM?

Mr. Lagesse highlighted several reasons for the young graduates of the Faculty to become members of STASM:

• Learning Opportunities : Members have access to conferences, field visits, and mentorship from experienced professionals.
• Professional Development : Students can gain valuable advice and insights from established experts in the field.
• Collaboration : Young members will collaborate with peers and seasoned professionals to address pressing challenges in the agricultural sector.
• Innovation : Participants will be at the forefront of transformative projects that drive innovation and sustainability.
• Continuous Learning : STASM offers a dynamic network where learning and growth are ongoing processes.

Future Plans

STASM has already mapped out a comprehensive program for 2025, with additional exciting initiatives planned for subsequent years. These efforts aim to inspire both young and experienced individuals to work together toward a brighter future for Mauritian agriculture.

Call to Action

In conclusion, Mr. Lagesse thanked the University of Mauritius, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, and all speakers for their support. He urged attendees to actively engage in the day's presentations. By doing so, young people can play a crucial role in transforming the agricultural sector and ensuring its long-term success.

The Future of Mauritian Sugar: A Call for Innovation and Sustainability

In his speech, the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academia) of the University of Mauritius, Prof M. Santally, highlighted the pressing need for transformation in the Mauritian sugar industry. He reminded us that the sugar industry has long been a cornerstone of the nation's economy and society. However, Prof Santally emphasized that the industry is now "under pressure to evolve to meet the challenges of sustainability and global competitiveness." He made it clear that relying on traditional methods alone will no longer suffice for long-term success.

A Sector at a Crossroads

Prof Santally described the sugar industry as being "at a crossroads," facing significant challenges such as climate change, fluctuating global prices, and evolving consumer demands. These pressures underscore the urgent need for a fundamental shift in how the industry operates. According to him, this isn't just about maintaining the status quo—it’s about redefining the sector entirely.

Innovation, Sustainability, and Resilience

In his speech, Prof Santally’s message was the need for "innovation, sustainability, and resilience." He stressed that these three elements are not only vital for the future of the sugar industry but also for the broader agriculture and agribusiness sectors in Mauritius. "This discussion," he said, "is not just about the sugar industry; it’s about wider principles applicable to all areas of agriculture." 

The University of Mauritius: Leading the Way

Prof Santally outlined the critical role of the University of Mauritius in driving this transformation. The university, he explained, is committed to supporting the sugar industry through research, innovation, and collaboration with stakeholders. "Our focus," he stated, "is on moving from traditional sugar production to a more diversified and value-added agro-industrial ecosystem." Specifically, the university is engaged in several key areas:

• Renewable biomass research : Exploring alternative uses for sugarcane by-products.
• Sustainable agriculture : Developing environmentally friendly farming practices.
• Agritech advancements : Leveraging technology to improve efficiency and productivity.

He emphasized that the university aims to contribute both to policy development and practical solutions, ensuring the resilience and competitiveness of the sector for generations to come.

Collaboration and Dialogue

Prof Santally described the event as a valuable platform for reflection and exploration. "It’s an opportunity to bridge knowledge gaps, integrate new technologies, and ensure the resilience of the sugar sector for future generations," he noted. He called for "deeper collaborations, renewed efforts, and a shared commitment to advancing the sugar sector and agricultural development in Mauritius."

A Vision for the Future

Concluding his speech, Prof Santally reiterated the importance of a strategic shift in the Mauritian sugar industry. "We must embrace innovation, sustainability, and collaboration if we are to secure a brighter future for our agricultural sector," he urged. With the University of Mauritius at the forefront, there is hope that the sugar industry can not only survive but thrive in the face of modern challenges.

WORLD CONSUMER DAY - 15 March 2015

Unhealthy diets contribute to more than 11 million deaths a year. This means it is now a bigger killer than tobacco. Obesity alone is estimated to cost $2 trillion per year. And this isn’t just a ‘rich world’ problem - some of the biggest increases in diet-related diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and some cancers are in developing countries.

Unhealthy diets are linked to four of the ten biggest causes of death worldwide: overweight and obesity, high blood pressure, high blood glucose and high cholesterol. Obesity alone is estimated to cost US$2 trillion per year. It really is time the world woke up to the price of unhealthy diets. 

It is why CI has decided to make helping consumers choose healthy diets the theme of World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) 2015. 

 

CI Members around the world will be staging campaign actions to draw attention to the difficulties faced by consumers in choosing healthy diets.

It really is time the world woke up to the price of unhealthy diets.

Consumers International and the global consumer rights movement are calling for the World Health Organisation (WHO) to develop a global treaty to support consumers’ rights to healthy food. A global treaty would:

• Reduce very high levels of fat, salt and sugar in everyday foods
• Reduce the marketing of junk food to children
• Provide clear nutrition labelling to help consumers choose a healthy diet
• Improve the standards of food served in public institutions such as schools