London, July 7 - World sugar output in 2007/08 is expected to stand at 170.0 million tonnes, up from 166.6 million in 2006/07, German analyst F.O. Licht said on Monday.
Previously (on January 25, 2008) Licht had forecast global 2007/08 sugar production at 169.1 million tonnes.
Licht noted signs that global sugar output could fall in 2008/09.
"Current indications are that cane sugar production could drop by 3 million tonnes, which would be the first decrease since 2004/05," Licht said in a statement.
Beet sugar production could also be down by 3 million tonnes as the EU sugar reform has finally picked up speed and will lead to a sharp drop in EU sugar production in 2008/09, Licht said.
"These figures point to a noticeable drop in output in 2008/09 though the world market will remain well supplied as the huge volumes of stocks that have accumulated over the last two years are still overhanging the market," the analyst said.