In 1992, the sugar cane mills of Guatemala, through the Association of Sugar Producers of Guatemala –Asazgua-, created the Guatemalan Center for Research and Training of Sugar Cane –Cengicaña-. This center is dedicated to promoting technological advancement in the sector, with key research in five programs:
Sugar cane varieties program
Cengicaña develops Guatemalan sugar cane varieties, currently has developed 38 varieties that occupy 60% of the area cultivated under the administration of the mills. These varieties offer higher yields and are also more resistant to diseases and may adapt to climatic variations. The CG02-163 variety is the leader in extension and productivity.
Precision technology and intelligent agriculture
Cengicaña uses satellite imagery from the European Space Agency and NASA to monitor soil moisture and determine the optimal maturity of sugar cane for harvest. In addition, it has developed innovative tools such as the CengiRiegos application, which optimizes the use of water in crops promoting a more sustainable use of water resources.
Industrial Research
Cengicaña’s industrial research program seeks to reduce sucrose and energy losses in the process of sugar production and electricity generation. Tests are conducted to identify key areas for improvement and develop specific research projects. The goal is to optimize the use of resources, reduce losses and minimize the environmental impact of the process.
Training and transfer
Cengicaña is key in training the collaborators of the Sugar Cane Agroindustry, through symposia, specialized committees and technical events that allow the mills to benefit from the latest technologies developed. These activities include field tours and participation in national and international congresses, strengthening knowledge exchange and the implementation of innovations in the sector.
Learn more about our research center: