The current management of the sugar sector

27.6.2012

Question for oral answer O-000143/2012
to the Commission
Rule 115
Luis Manuel Capoulas Santos
on behalf of the S&D Group

There are three main models of sweetener production in Europe – sugar from beet, sugar from cane and isoglucose. The industry has undergone significant changes since the 2006 reform of the sugar regime.

Under the existing regulations, the mechanism which ensured that cane refiners had access to a minimum level of raw material supply was removed on the basis that cane imports from preferential supplying countries would double. This has not occurred, and cane refiners are facing difficulties sourcing adequate amounts of raw material as a result.

In contrast, the beet and isoglucose sector benefit from a quota system that allows them to access a regulatory established minimum volume of raw material supply.

Can the Commission explain how it currently manages the balances in the sugar sector? How will the Commission ensure that the three models of production can compete fairly and that an effective balance can be maintained for all sectors?

Tabled: 27.6.2012

Forwarded: 29.6.2012

Deadline for reply: 6.7.2012