The RV price payable at the end of July 2026 for 2026/2027 season cane deliveries up to the end of June 2026 has been declared at R6 659,26 per ton of RV. This represents a decrease of R80,11 per ton compared to the previous month’s declared RV price of R6 739,37 per ton.

The decline was primarily driven by a downward revision of the Local Market Demand Estimate (LMDE), which was reduced by 55 000 tons following weaker- than-expected local sugar sales. Lower domestic demand continues to place pressure on industry revenues and grower returns.

The industry also remains under strain from rising sugar imports. By the end of May 2026, 45 041 tons of imported sugar had entered South Africa, representing a 122% increase compared to the same period in the previous season. The continued influx of imported sugar has intensified competition in the local market, further affecting the industry’s performance.

In addition, the weighted average rand-to-dollar exchange rate strengthened slightly from R16,51 to R16,41, contributing to the lower RV price. Ongoing delays in finalising the application to increase the Dollar-Based Reference Price (DBRP) have also prevented the implementation of stronger tariff protection against imported sugar, leaving the local industry exposed to continued import pressure.

The latest RV price highlights the ongoing challenges facing South Africa’s sugar industry, with subdued local demand, increasing imports, currency movements and delayed trade protection measures continuing to impact grower returns.