Illovo Sugar (Malawi) has attributed the current sugar crisis in the country to rampant smuggling and adverse weather conditions that have disrupted harvesting operations.

In a statement released on Monday and made available to YFM, the company responded to the recent sharp increase in sugar prices on the local market.

Illovo Managing Director Kondwani Msimuko cited informal cross-border trade as a major factor, stating that local traders are diverting sugar supplies to neighbouring countries, further straining domestic availability.

“The combination of unfavourable weather and illegal export activities is putting significant pressure on supply chains,” Msimuko said in the statement.

The company says it is working closely with authorities to address the situation and ensure stable sugar distribution across the country.