SOFTS-Cocoa futures rise on Ivory Coast crop concerns

LONDON, March 26 (Reuters) - Cocoa prices rose on Wednesday, buoyed by ongoing concerns about the mid-crop in top grower Ivory Coast, while coffee and sugar prices were lower.

COCOA

London cocoa LCCc1 rose 1.3% to 6,267 pounds per metric ton by 1515 GMT.

Dealers said the market continued to derive support from the potential for a significant decline in the size of the mid-crop in top producer Ivory Coast.

The upside continues to be capped, however, by concerns about weak demand with first quarter cocoa grind data in early April likely to be closely monitored.

New York cocoa CCc1 rose 0.4% to $8,029 a ton.

SUGAR

Raw sugar SBc1 fell 0.3% to 19.45 cents per lb.

Dealers said news that India would allow mills to fulfil an export quota of 1 million tons was seen as bearish.

India will not restrict mills from exporting the 1 million metric tons of sugar permitted for the current season, sources said, quashing speculation that falling output estimates for the current year would prompt authorities to curb overseas sales.

The outlook for the upcoming 2025/26 (April-to-May) crop in top producer Brazil has also been boosted by showers in the key Centre-South region.

"Rains will improve moisture in Center-South (Brazil) but more is needed to fully replenish soils and support growth," weather service Maxar said in a report.

White sugar LSUc1 fell 0.3% to $543 a ton.

COFFEE

Arabica coffee KCc1 fell 1.7% to $3.9190 per lb.

Dealers said rains were expected during the next few days, which should improve the outlook for Brazil's upcoming arabica coffee crop.

Robusta coffee LRCc2 fell 1.5% to $5,491 a ton.