As against a storage capacity of 16-lakh MT, the total output of molasses, a viscous by-product of the processing of sugarcane or sugar beets into sugar, in the current season is expected to go up to 33 lakh MT.
Faced with the problem of excess production of molasses in Maharashtra, a top sugar factory body has sought the government nod to allow its export.
"The produce has touched a historic high of 17-lakh metric tonnes (MT) till this month on account of good monsoon last year. However, due to lack of adequate storage facilities, we are looking at exporting the surplus stock," Maharashtra State Cooperative Sugar Factory Federation (MSCSFF) managing director Prakash Naiknavare said.
The federation has, therefore, requested the government to allow the export, he said, adding the move would also offset the losses suffered due to the decline in prices.
As against a storage capacity of 16-lakh MT, the total output of molasses, a viscous by-product of the processing of sugarcane or sugar beets into sugar, in the current season is expected to go up to 33 lakh MT, he said.
Besides, there is another 4-lakh MT of the residual from the last crushing season (2009-10), Naiknavare said.
"Since we do not have adequate facility to store, the surplus produce is stored in pits. As a result, the molasses starts rotting. If the government allows the exports, it will help us minimise our losses," Naiknavare said.
"After meeting the local and inter-state demand, which is around 25-lakh MT, we will still be left with a surplus of 9-lakh MT, which can exported."
Due to excess production, domestic prices of sugar and molasses are showing a downward trend, he said.
Currently, the prices of molasses range between Rs2,800 and 3,000 per MT as against the international prices which are around $110-115 per MT.
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