The Dubai Sugar Conference 2026

Jamal & Jacob: A long and rewarding collaboration

When Jamal Al Ghurair of Al Khaleej Sugar, the world’s largest standalone sugar refinery, and Jacob Robbins of Emeterra, who used to be the world’s largest industrial buyer of sugar, put their heads together, things are bound to happen. Having co-hosted The Dubai Sugar Conference for several years now, they once again present this premier event, bringing their expertise, connections and resources to create a powerful platform for the sugar industry.

Keynote Speaker

We are delighted to have Tomás Manzano, Chief Executive Officer of Copersucar, as our Keynote Speaker at The Dubai Sugar Conference 2026. A world leader in sugar and energy, Copersucar has, over the last six decades, evolved into a conglomerate with an ecosystem spanning Brazil and several other countries. The company has led the global trajectory in the commercialization of bio-ethanol. Its energy transition pathway includes renewable electricity, natural gas, biomethane and the development of sustainable aviation fuel. In the financial year ending March 2025, Copersucar had sugar sales of 15.6 million tonnes and ethanol sales of over 19 billion litres.

Tomás has been part of the company's leadership since 2012, contributing to strategic development and operational integration across the entire value chain. He has extensive experience in agribusiness, bioenergy, logistics and international commodity markets. Tomás serves as Chairman of the Board of Eco-Energy, a leading US platform for ethanol trading, logistics and natural gas. He is also the Chairman of Newcom, a renewable power trading company in Brazil. Tomás sits on the Boards of Alvean; Evolua – a major ethanol trading company; and Logum – a vital fuel pipeline logistics operator.

Tomás will lay out his vision for what is possible to achieve with Intelligence Reimagined, especially as relates to food security and energy transition. We look forward to his insights.

The Global Sugar Industry Lifetime Achievement Award

A key architect of global commodity trading. A believer in great teams and excellent people. The man who has steered the destiny of Sucden for 40 years.

It is our absolute honour to present The Global Sugar Industry Lifetime Achievement Award to Serge Varsano, Chairman of the Management Board of Sucden, at The Dubai Sugar Conference 2026. In 1976, Serge joined the family business started by his father Maurice Versano in 1952. Beginning as a trader in sugar when he came on board, Serge grew through positions of increasing responsibility, and assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer in 1986. Two years later, he was appointed Group Chief Executive Officer and Chairman. After the passing of his father in 1980, Serge focussed on restructuring Sucden, diversifying into multiple commodities and leading the company to what it has become today. Sucden employs more than 5,000 people and generates over US$ 12 billion in revenue. The group is also a major player in financial brokerage and maritime logistics.

Serge Varsano embodies a leadership style rooted in discipline, foresight and a belief in long-term sustainability. He continues to lead the group while nurturing the next generation. Serge remains deeply absorbed in the business. As he puts it, "We never master everything in trading... but that is what makes it interesting and fun".

This Award recognizes Serge’s exceptional impact and contributions to the world of sugar.

Heading to Dubai?

A gleaming, modern metro amid ancient sands... time touches Dubai in interesting ways. A heady mix of the old and new, of tradition and technology, of ambition and emotion. And, of course, an inimitable flair for hospitality. Food, fun, shopping or dune-bashing – there’s something here for everyone. Try all that the city has to offer, and you will discover something new every time. That’s Dubai!

Those who help us stir it up!

Our Sponsors’ role in making this Conference a reality cannot be over-emphasized. Without your extremely generous backing and sponsorship of this not-for-profit event, The Dubai Sugar Conference would just not be possible. The Conference has a unique ‘by invitation only’ format, where your support is vital. This event’s continued success over the years is an affirmation of your faith in the Conference, and your commitment to it. We thank you for this, for making it all happen.

We look forward to welcoming you at The Dubai Sugar Conference 2026. Here’s to sharing valuable knowledge and insights, and igniting that spark!

Should you wish to be an integral part of it, please contact our Conference Manager Natalie Lober for value-added sponsorship opportunities.

E-mail: natalie.lober@thedubaisugarconference.com
Mobile: +971 50 287 8493
Office: +971 4 292 7109