According to Ian Ballantyne, CEO of Canegrowers, changes to the constitution of sugar marketing body, Queensland Sugar Limited, have been confirmed by overwhelming vote, giving QSL the green light on its continued operation as the preferred marketer and supplier of Australia's sugar on the world raw sugar market.

The constitutional changes were supported by 23 of the 25 grower representatives (92pc). All milling companies casting a vote at the meeting supported the amendment.

The constitutional amendment provides for a total commercial focus, the appointment of independent directors, gives greater transparency in marketing arrangements and provides a stable platform for longer term pricing arrangements. The body remains jointly owned by and accountable to sugar cane growers and raw sugar millers.

Mr Ballantyne says that industry and customers alike will welcome this outcome. Queensland Sugar Limited will remain the single face for more than 95pc of Australia's raw sugar exports. Changes to the structure of the board are likely to take several months to be implemented.