Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA)

The oldest industrial association in the country was established in 1932 when tariff protection was granted to the industry. It is recognized by the Central and State Governments as the Central Apex Organization to voice the cause of the sugar industry. Sugar mills in the private sector as well as the public sector are eligible to become members of ISMA. Its total strength of membership as on stands at 234 and accounts for about half of country’s total sugar production. ISMA’s history is synonymous to the growth of the sugar industry in India which also began in early 1930s.

It is an Apex organization and maintains close contacts with all regions in India through a network of regional associations and with international organizations and associations through international bodies. ISMA is the interface between the industry and Government on matters relating to sugar policy, statistics on production, sales, exports/ imports, prices etc.

ISMA maintains database for the sugar industry which is shared with all the member factories, media and also various Government organizations. The Association publishes a monthly journal, “Indian Sugar” as well as yearly publications called “Indian Sugar Year Book”. List of sugar mills in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka giving all relevant information about each sugar factory is also published. A statistical handbook is also prepared every year on production, prices, sales, exports/imports etc.

India entered the sugar export market for the first time in the year 1957 which was entirely on the initiative of ISMA. ISMA itself then undertook export of sugar as the export agency of the Government for which a separate wing was started.

The office of the Association functions through its Executive Committee, Governing Council and various standing sub-committees on specific issues. Special cells have also been created to provide guidance and help to the members on important topics.

ISMA’s R&D Cell on sugarcane has successfully identified promising sugarcane varieties in improving sugarcane productivity which received recognition from various research institutes and Government organizations etc. The results have been encouraging in the recent two years.

ISMA is the member of several International Industry Associations including International Sugar Organization, World Sugar Research Organization, World Association of Beet and Cane Growers and Global Alliance for Sugar Trade Reforms and Liberalization. India is largest consumer of sugar and 2nd largest producer in the world.