Dutch onion market is starting to come alive

It looks like some more excitement is about to begin. In general, it is expected that the demand for onions will increase further in August. This is mainly caused by the opening of the Senegalese border. As is known, Senegal is closed roughly from February to August for the purpose of selling home-grown onions.

Senegal
Last season, Senegal was good for the intake of almost 170.000 tons of Dutch onions, an increase of approximately 10% compared to last season and an increase of approximately 17% compared to the previous season. In the 2013-2014 season, 130.000 tons of onions went from the Netherlands to Senegal, which meant a decrease of approximately 12.000 tons compared to the 2012-2013 season.

Text continues below the chart The export of onions to Senegal in tons.

If the increasing export trend of onions to Senegal continues this season, according to the development of recent years, this African country could well be good for the import of more than 180.000 tons of Dutch onions. In any case, the prospects are positive, which is currently accompanied by good quality with an average fine grading.

The fact that there is more movement in the onions is also reflected in the trade. In the field trade, business is done in early seed onions for €10,50 and €10 per 100 kilos. The double digits before the decimal point trigger growers to make offers. In the first case, the onions must be harvested no later than August 5 and in the second case before August 15.

Expectations for the new season
It is difficult to say anything about sales for the coming season at this time. Africa currently dominates sales and demand from countries in Southeast Asia is coming. Central America is making a modest contribution. We are looking for gaps that could arise globally, which will allow the Dutch onion market to gain further momentum. But and that should prevail: the feeling is good!