U.S. domestic sugar prices are hovering around its lowest levels in 22 years, and despite generous support coming from Washington, the pace of price recovery remains unclear, not least because of the threat of imports from Mexico.

With free world sugar trade far from reality, American producers believe it will lead to further lobbying in Washington for a new Farm Bill. The new legislation should prevent US sugar growers and farmers from having to contend with cheaper commodities coming from nations that heavily subsidize their industries.

Luther Markwart, executive vice-president of the American Sugarbeet Growers Association, said that farmers seemed willing to band together to develop policies that ensure the survival of the farm industry.

-- (The Wall Street Journal)