A plan to make Mali, one of the poorest countries in the world, self sufficient in sugar has been unveiled by US engineering company Schaffer and Associates and has been given the go ahead by the Mali government.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


The cost of establishing sugar cane plantations and a processing factory is estimated to be roughly US$253.6m.


Schaffer believes that the west African country has the right combination of land, labour and water together with the correct economies of scale in terms of production of between 150,000 to 170,000 tonnes per year to make it financially viable.


It is estimated that the project’s preparatory work would take two years to complete, while the factory erection would take a further 22 months, starting mid-2003.


By Richard Hurst, just-food.com correspondent in Johannesburg

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now