The scheduled abolition of the EU sugar production quota by October 2017 does not necessarily guarantee a low sugar price in the bloc, finds a new Rabobank report.

Lifting export restrictions will make it easier for EU sugar to find its way to the global market, therewith impacting domestic availability. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, the EU food and beverage industry would do well to consider longer term contracts or alternative sweeteners, according to the paper, Even the Sweetest of Dreams May Turn Sour; The EU Sugar Quota Regime Comes to an End.

In anticipation of 1 October 2017, after falling more than 40% since 2013, the EU sugar price has dropped to levels on a par with the world price and, recently, even lower. The chief reason behind the declining price is increased competition between sugar producers. In the post quota age, such competition will be the new norm, says Rabobank.

"The general assumption that abolishing the EU sugar quota as of October 2017 will only have positive effects for sugar buyers is too good to be true," comments Ruud Schers, analyst at Rabobank. "Sugar buyers should brace themselves for the possibility that high world prices for sugar may trigger regional supply tightness in the bloc, which could push their sugar prices up considerably. The good news is that sugar buyers do not have to wait until October 2017 to start taking preventative measures against this risk."