Sugars; molasses, from sugar cane, resulting from the extraction or refining of sugar

HS code 170310 covers sugars and molasses derived from the extraction or refining of sugar cane. This industry is a crucial component of the global food and beverage supply chain, providing essential sweeteners and ingredients for a wide range of products. As a major agricultural commodity, the production and trade of sugar cane-based sugars and molasses play a significant role in the broader economy, impacting industries such as 151110 Crude palm oil, 190190 Other food preparations, and 220710 Undenatured ethyl alcohol of an alcoholic strength by volume of 80% vol. or higher.

The production of sugars and molasses under HS code 170310 typically involves the harvesting of sugar cane, followed by a series of extraction and refining processes. The sugar cane is first crushed or shredded to extract the sugar-rich juice. This juice is then clarified, evaporated, and crystallized to produce raw sugar. The remaining molasses is a by-product of this process. Further refining may be conducted to produce white, refined sugar.

The primary inputs for the production of sugars and molasses under HS code 170310 are sugar cane, which serves as the raw material. Additionally, the industry requires various processing equipment, such as crushers, evaporators, and centrifuges, as well as energy sources, water, and labor. Chemical additives, such as lime or sulfur dioxide, may also be used in the clarification and purification stages of production.

The main outputs of the industry covered by HS code 170310 are raw sugar, refined white sugar, and molasses. These products are widely used as sweeteners and ingredients in the food and beverage industry, with applications in 190190 Other food preparations, 210690 Food preparations not elsewhere specified or included, and 220710 Undenatured ethyl alcohol of an alcoholic strength by volume of 80% vol. or higher. Molasses, in particular, is also used in the production of 220710 Undenatured ethyl alcohol of an alcoholic strength by volume of 80% vol. or higher and as a livestock feed ingredient.