FAO foresees world sugar production to decline in 2018/19 (October/September), but to remain above total consumption, with the anticipated surplus likely to be smaller than last year’s record level. Expected decreases in sugar output in Brazil, the European Union (EU) and Thailand will likely be offset by expansions in China, Mexico, Australia and Egypt. On the demand side, world sugar consumption is set to rise, reflecting predicted increases in several developing countries, prompted by lower domestic sugar prices. Sugar consumption growth is expected to be particularly marked in Africa, Asia and Central America and the Caribbean. Sufficient domestic supplies in traditional importing countries should lead to a contraction in global import demand relative to the last marketing season. The implementation of import restriction measures in some major markets could also limit global import demand. Exports are set to fall for Brazil, the world’s largest sugar exporter, but to rise for Thailand, the second largest sugar exporter, prompted by abundant sugar stocks. A key feature in the current season is India maintaining its status as the world’s largest sugar producer for the second consecutive season, surpassing Brazil.