In a recent analysis covering the period of September 8-14, 2024, a notable increase in the volume and prices of seasonal perishable commodities was observed.
Agricultural weather highlights
On the agricultural front, the USDA's Brad Rippey reported on September 13, 2024, weather conditions affecting crop production. The West is experiencing a late-season heatwave, while the Northwest sees cooler weather aiding wildfire containment. Hurricane Francine brought heavy rainfall to Louisiana, impacting unharvested crops in the central Gulf Coast and Mississippi Delta. The Corn Belt benefits from warm, dry weather for planting, contrasting with cooler, showery conditions on the Plains.
Avocados
The avocado supply chain from Mexico, particularly through Texas crossings, is anticipated to maintain its current pace with a moderate trading volume. There is a noted shortage in the supply of sizes 32-40s. The pricing dynamics show a slight increase for conventional size 84s, while the cost for size 70s remains stable. Other sizes have experienced a price increase. Conversely, the avocado movement from South District California is projected to decrease, with trading remaining moderate. Price adjustments have been observed, with sizes 40-60s showing a decrease, while other sizes have stable pricing.
Cucumbers
In the cucumber market, a decrease in movement through Otay Mesa, California, from Mexico is anticipated. Additionally, cartons of 36 cucumbers were mostly 9.95-10.95, reflecting the variable quality and condition of the produce. Similarly, cucumber shipments from Mexico through Texas are expected to see a reduction, with trading dynamics mirroring those in California—starting strong and settling at moderate levels. The quality and condition of cucumbers in this region also vary. In Michigan, cucumber movement is projected to stabilize, supported by fairly active trading. Cartons of 24 cucumbers remain steady at 10.85. Western and Central New York are expected to maintain their cucumber supply levels, with moderate trading activity and stable prices.
Green bell peppers
In the San Joaquin Valley, California, the movement of green bell peppers is projected to stay consistent, with moderate trading activity observed. The market is marked by limited availability, as the majority of shipments fulfill prior bookings or commitments. Pricing for extra-large sizes remains stable, while prices for other categories have seen a slight decrease. In Michigan, the movement of green bell peppers is also expected to remain steady, with trading at moderate levels. Similarly, in Western North Carolina, the green bell pepper market is anticipated to maintain its current pace, with moderate trading. Prices for extra-large peppers are generally unchanged, as are prices for other sizes.
Tomatoes
Tomato shipments from Mexican crossings through Texas are anticipated to see a reduction, with current supplies being light. The market is witnessing active trading, with a slight increase in prices for certain sizes, while others remain stable. In Central District California, tomato movement is expected to stay steady, with trading at moderate levels. Price adjustments are seen with extra-large and large sizes experiencing a slight decrease, whereas medium sizes are fetching slightly higher prices. The ongoing hot temperatures are influencing the harvest schedules, affecting market dynamics. Eastern Tennessee and the Virginia Eastern Shore regions report stable movement with moderate trading activity. Prices are on the rise, with extra services factored into the cost. Similarly, movement through Otay Mesa, California from Mexico is expected to slightly decrease. Alabama's tomato market is projected to remain stable, with moderate trading and a slight decrease in prices for Mature Green 5x6 size, while other sizes maintain their price levels. In Western North Carolina, the movement is anticipated to stay the same with moderate trading. Prices are generally unchanged, indicating a stable market for the region.
Blueberries
Seasonal trends indicate an uptick in blueberry shipments from Peru, primarily entering through ports in Miami, Philadelphia, and New York. The market is experiencing fairly active trading, with large-sized blueberries in flats of 12 1-pint cups with lids being quoted at an average of $46.00. The quality of these berries is reported as good. In contrast, blueberry movement from British Columbia, Canada, through Northwest Washington is on a seasonal decline. The availability of Canada One grade blueberries is notably tight, sparking fairly active trading dynamics. Similarly, the Pacific Northwest regions of Oregon and Washington are witnessing a seasonal decrease in blueberry shipments. The trading atmosphere is moderate, with a noticeable increase in prices. Non-organic medium to large blueberries are trading at $24.00 to $26.00 for flats of 12 6-ounce cups with lids, and $36.00 to $40.00 for flats of 12 1-pint cups with lids. Michigan's blueberry movement is also expected to see a seasonal dip, with the market too concentrated in a few hands to establish stable pricing.
The following table provides a four-week price trend of the highest traded commodities this week:
Click here to read the full report.
For more information:
USDA
Email: [email protected]
www.usda.gov