ALSTEAD, N.H.—The nation’s largest bulk syrup buyer on Monday announced a 20-cent increase for the 2026 crop, citing strong demand.

Bascom Maple Farms said it will pay $2.60 per pound for Golden and Amber syrup, $2.55 for Dark, $2.35 for Very Dark and $1.60 for processing-grade syrup. Organic syrup will earn a 15-cent premium.

“While the past few months have been erratic to say the least, with everything from tariffs to exchange rates to foreign governments, we are optimistic about the future of the maple industry,” the company said in a statement announcing the new prices.

Other bulk buyers in Vermont have already adopted similar pricing for the season.

The increase comes amid record global demand. Last year’s crop — the second largest on record — was largely sold out by January, leaving buyers scrambling for supply.

“Sales were unprecedented this past year,” said Bruce Bascom, adding that worldwide demand has been growing about 8% annually.

In Canada, the Quebec maple federation — which sets production quotas and markets syrup for producers — has added more than 21 million taps in recent years and set its producer price at roughly $2.60 U.S. per pound.

The federation’s strategic reserve has been drawn down to near empty, according to market participants, prompting it to ration syrup to preferred buyers.

Meanwhile, U.S. producers are reporting a strong season in many regions.

In central New York, sugarmakers over the weekend described sap runs as among the biggest they have ever seen.