VTA member's stock of yellow onions significantly smaller than last year

The differences between red and yellow onions are significant this year. While sales of yellow onions continue smoothly, growers have been left with red onions. This is reflected in the VTA figures. After a record harvest for red onions, sales faltered. As a result, the stock of red onions is almost three times larger than last year.

For yellow onions, the stock held by VTA members is significantly smaller than last year and, moreover, 2,5% lower than the five-year average. The total stock of unsold and sold onions held by these members is currently barely larger than the quantity of unsold onions stored in the warehouse at the beginning of April last year.

VTA members produced fewer yellow onions in 2025 than in 2024. Although these members are spread across the Netherlands, this does not align with the national picture. Across the Netherlands, production of yellow seed onions increased by 12% to 1,44 million tonnes, according to harvest forecast figures from Statistics Netherlands (CBS).

There is also a significant difference regarding red onions. While VTA members harvested around 15% more red onions, the national increase stands at 50%, exceeding 300.000 tonnes. At the same time, it is clear that far fewer red onions were sold by VTA members than last year. A large quantity remains unsold in storage.

Especially for red, a difficult market
Stefan Hoekstra, a member of the VTA onion trade committee, wonders if these onions can still be sold. "About 10 cents per kilo is being paid for 50 and 60 millimeters. That is not a good sign. Moreover, you hear a lot of stories about baldness. The onions are more aged than we are used to, and the season is ongoing."

He is more positive about yellow onions. Based on VTA's stock figures, a rising market seems likely. "In principle, the market for yellow onions should pick up somewhat. But that isn't happening," states Hoekstra. "Yellow onions are also becoming bald. High prices are not being paid right now, but for many growers, waiting is not an option."

He still sees additional sales potential for nice, large yellow onions in the coming period. At the same time, there are still inferior batches on the market. These are putting pressure on pricing. If these batches disappear, Hoekstra expects a better market.