The Brazilian sugar industry: recent developments.

Brazil is among the world leaders in the production of sugarcane, sugar, and ethanol (fuel alcohol). In addition, it is among the most efficient of all major sugar produc- ers. The country also produces and exports a diverse number of sugar products. Since Brazil can produce either sugar or ethanol from sugarcane, it is one of the few countries that can adjust sugar production rapidly to potential world sugar shortfalls and high international prices. In 2000, less than half of its cane production was ground for sugar.