Sugar · importers
The United Kingdom ranks fifth of 96 at $2.2B in the sugars and sugar confectionery chapter, with a strong cane-refining tradition.
| Market | HS 17 imports |
|---|---|
| United States | $7.2B |
| China | $4.2B |
| Indonesia | $3.6B |
| Germany | $2.6B |
| India | $1.9B |
Figures are for the whole of HS chapter 17 (sugars and sugar confectionery); sugar is only part of it. Source: UN Comtrade, as reported by national authorities; latest available year per market.
Germany is above at $2.6B and India below at $1.9B. The UK’s 3.4% share of reported world imports keeps it clear of India, though the gap is not large. The chapter is 0.3% of its $813.3B imports and ranks 51st among import chapters.
The UK has long refined imported raw cane sugar as well as processing home-grown beet, and it has big biscuit, confectionery, soft-drink and bakery industries. Refiners buy raw sugar in bulk against technical specifications, while manufacturers may buy refined or specialty sugars in smaller lots. The chapter also includes finished sugar confectionery.
Ask the importer whether it refines, packs or manufactures, and which grade it needs. It is worth asking whether the buyer has any long-term arrangements with existing suppliers, since a refinery that runs on a steady programme may have limited room for new volume and may only want spot cargoes to fill gaps.
Tariff and quota arrangements for sugar have changed with the UK’s trading relationships, and the details are set by the authorities. Do not rely on any earlier understanding: confirm the current position and whether your origin qualifies for preferential access. China, the USA, Germany and France lead the overall source list, which covers all goods.
The $2.2B covers all of chapter 17, so sugar is only part, and re-exports can shift rankings.
Sugar-heading shipment data shows the receiver and tonnage of each arrival. Use it to draw up a list of regular importers, agree Incoterm, currency, payment terms and port, and reach out through this site’s free marketplace.
Fifth of 96 markets at $2.2B in 2024, a 3.4% share of reported world imports.
Preferential access can depend on origin, so confirm whether yours qualifies under current arrangements.
No. British totals count sweets as well as sugar.
Search sugar-heading shipment records and compare consignees by weight.
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