Despite the good export figures in recent weeks, farmer prices for onions that have to be picked up in the short term have been fairly stable for the last 3 weeks. How did that happen?
All 3 regional stock exchanges are trading unchanged this week. If we compare all regional fairs, €18 to €20 is paid for yellow seed onions. There is less pressure on the farm, because many processors have already taken a position on direct delivery. These obligations are first fulfilled before new stock is purchased. In addition, long-term obligations are brought forward. Since a lot of onions are still being exported, we have to wait for the moment when a new purchasing round will arise.
Good exports continue
The most recent export figures were also something to write home about (37.666 tonnes in week 44). Although packers indicate that it is slightly less wild than a few weeks ago, they say that a lot of onions are still being exported at the moment. Until the New Year, most packers are convinced that this demand will remain good. The question is what will happen after New Year's Eve when Africa normally switches largely to the local harvest.
The expected export to Asia seems positive, but nothing is certain in the onion market. The availability of containers also plays a role in this. Due to an imbalance in global container flows, it is difficult for exporters to obtain containers. This may restrict exports.