Senegal has been the largest buyer of Dutch onions for many years. However, this question has already been answered for the time being, because Senegal's import quota will expire in the short term.
Normally, export figures drop sharply in January. This week, however, that isn't so bad. Onions are still being shipped for Senegal. Permission has been successfully requested to allow later unloading in the port of Dakar. The import quota has been extended until Monday, January 10. After that date, onions may no longer be shipped to Senegal, meaning Dutch exports will lose their largest buyer.
In addition to Senegal, sales to other African customers are also declining. Ivory Coast is also a major buyer of Dutch onions. They have been purchasing a lot fewer onions since December, because they are switching to the local harvest. Compared to other years, more onions are sold in these weeks.
Purchase additional stock
The unexpected demand has caused a number of packers to purchase some additional stock from the farmer. In the coming weeks, many packers will have sufficient stock to meet demand. However, further into the season, fewer onions were purchased in the long term (compared to other years).
The regional stock exchange committee in Goes was the only one to record a 60% increase this week, compared to last week, with €9,50 to €11,00. The stock exchange committee is the only one that quotes a minus for 30% to 60%. This quote is €9 to €10. Recordings remained unchanged in Middenmeer and Emmeloord. In addition, the committees indicate a calm mood, which means that demand is less than or equal to supply.
Bale prices remain good due to the latest demand from Senegal. There are few changes compared to the last few weeks. An overview of the bale prices can be found in the DCA listing bale price onions.