Staff Reporter

Tongaat Hulett, a leading company in the sugar industry, is projecting a substantial increase in sugar output for the 2023-2024 Season.

In an exclusive interview with Dereck Makuku, Head of Public Relations at Tongaat Hulett in Zimbabwe said that the company expects to produce 400 000 tonnes of sugar, a rise from last year’s output of 370,000 tonnes.

“The company anticipates a significant increase in sugar output for the 2023-2024 season, projecting production to reach 400 000 tonnes. This marks an increase from last year’s output of 370 000 tonnes,” Makuku said

Makuku stated that the projected production value is over US$380 million, with outgrower farmers contributing 40% and Tongaat itself contributing 60%.

 “Our partnership with outgrower farmers continues to be a crucial part of our strategy, ensuring sustainable growth and community development,” he said.

Makuku highlighted that Tongaat Hulett, implored a strategy that not only caters for local demand but also maximizes revenue through international trade.

“Tongaat’s milling capacity stands at 600 000 tonnes annually, supported by mills capable of processing 1.6 million tonnes of cane each. With domestic sugar consumption at 300 000 tonnes per year, the surplus will be exported to lucrative markets in the US and EU,” Makuku noted

In addition to its sugar production, Tongaat contributes to the national grid by generating an excess of 10MW of power.

“Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond agriculture. By feeding excess power into the national grid, we are playing a part in addressing the country’s energy needs,” Makuku added.

Meanwhile, this anticipated increase in sugar output underscores Tongaat’s robust production capabilities and significant role in supporting local outgrower farmers, contributing to the national economy through exports and energy production.