Abstract Background We compare the prevalence rates of common mental disorders symptoms between farmers and non-farmers workers of the sugarcane industry and explore the role of relevant occupational factors. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study with an occupational health & safety focus, describing the demographic and work characteristics of farmers and non-farmer of the sugar cane industry in San Jacinto, Peru. We identified mental disorders symptoms using a local validated version of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). We explored the association between symptoms of mental disorders, work conditions and known occupational risk factors. We explored the proposed association using negative binomial regression models to estimate Ratio of means (RM) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results We assessed 281 workers; 106 (37.7%) of respondents identified themselves as farm workers. The mean GHQ-12 score for farmers and non-farmers was 3.1 and 1.3 respectively. In the adjusted multivariate models mental disorders symptom counts among farmers was more than twice higher than those of non-farmers (RM: 2.11; 95% CI: 1.48-3.01). Also, having a low monthly salary (RM: 1.39; 95% CI: 1.00-1.92), and additional working hours per week (RM: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.00-1.03) were associated with higher counts of mental disorders symptoms. Conclusions Our Findings highlight the importance of including mental health within occupational programs and early interventions tailored to this target group. Key messages Occupational hazard; Mental disorders; Sugarcane work, Farmers.