Meadow hay scores highest price in years

The forage traders indicate that there is little meadow hay available, while demand remains the same or even increases. It has caused the price to rise for weeks. The price this week amounts to €250 per tonne, free of charge. That is the highest level since late 2011/early 2012, when the price was almost €300 per tonne.

Straw price remains stable again
The price for straw (both barley and wheat straw) remains this week again stable at €140 per tonne free at farm. Traders do not expect the price to show major changes in the short term. "These are only expected in 2019, when the market will revive somewhat," said a trader.

The price of spent grains also remains stable this week and amounts to €2,70 per percent dry matter. Both supply and demand are stable, meaning the price cannot move in any direction.

Little trade in silage
According to various forage traders, there is also little demand for silage. The price remains stable at €50 per tonne free at the farm, but the bottom side shows a slight decrease. This week this amounts to €30 per tonne free at the farm.

The price of perennial ryegrass also remains unchanged unchanged, but high. This amounts to €165 per tonne, free of charge. Quality plays an increasingly important role here; the good parties are paid a little more here and there.

Limited availability of red and tall fescue
Since last week, red fescue and tall fescue have also become available on the market in small quantities. This product is currently selling for a price between €175 and €185 per ton, free of charge. Veldbeemd is not yet available.

There is virtually no trade in silage maize anymore. However, what is done is sold at a price of €65 per tonne, free of charge. There is also little trade in potatoes. Traders indicate that some trade is done occasionally, but it mainly concerns rejected consignments from the factories.