Canada is emerging as one of the major centre for chocolate production, pushing sugar producers to expand output. Vancouver-based Rogers Sugar is investing $300 million to upgrade its refinery in Montréal, planning to boost output by 20%, reported Dailyhive.com.
Other companies are also increasing their production. Redpath Sugar has expanded its facilities, and Sucro Can Sourcing is investing $135 million to build Canada’s largest sugar refinery.
In 2023, Canada led the world in chocolate exports. Strict rules in the United States limiting sugar imports have encouraged chocolate and candy companies to move production to Canada. Hershey has repurchased its old factory in Ontario. Based in the United States, Blommer Chocolate is expanding its Ontario facility, and Mondelez International has invested $250 million to increase manufacturing in the province.
With rising demand for sweets, Canadian sugar producers are pressured to increase supply. Supply chain problems, including a strike in 2023, led to shortages and higher prices, forcing businesses to pay nearly double the usual price for sugar.
