The word “Jaggery” comes from Portuguese, ultimately from the Sanskirit (Sarkara). Jaggery is unrefined natural sugar that is produced without adding any chemicals in it. Jaggery is popularly known as the “medicinal sugar” and is nutritionally comparable with honey. It has been used as a sweetener in Ayurvedic Medicine for 3000 years. It is also called as non-centrifugal sugar. It’s color may very from golden brown to dark brown, depending upon the variety of the sugarcane. India has been recognized as one of the leading traders and exporters of Jaggery to the world. More then 60% of world Jaggery production is done in India. Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka & Tamilnadu are the major states, produce Jaggery in India. Major export destinations: USA, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Indonesia & Benin.

Worldwide, Jaggery is popular in South East Asia, Latin America, North Africa and Caribbean Islands though made from different products (Sugar cane, Date palm tree, Sago palm, Toddy palm, Coconut palm etc.).
Major Jaggery production countries: Brazil, India, Thailand, Australia, Germany, Mexico etc.
Major importing countries: USA, China, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia etc.
Though India contributes the highest to the world jaggery production but Brazil is the major exporter of jaggery.
Global consumption of jaggery is on rise in 2020, due to dietary changes based on increases health consciousness.