The main New Zealand onion harvest started in the Pukekohe and Matamata areas in January. "The weather has been excellent for us," said Simon Vale from Balle Bros. "Not too many rain events and a little cooler which has helped produce good skins. We also have a good spread of sizes and the quality is good."
Yields are close to the 5-year average, which is a little smaller than last year.
"There is still a good volume of onions available in Europe, though we understand the quality and storeability is mixed. Sales of EU stocks are reasonable, quality can best be described as variable. Some good quality lots, but also average and below average lots is what we hear."
This season there are no tariffs on New Zealand onions entering the EU and Simon said that in general they are able to be more competitive, but interest and demand for NZ onions are challenged by the remaining stocks of European crops.
"Asian markets are nearing the end of their supply from local and imports from the Northern Hemisphere. We expect them to show more interest in NZ onions over the next month or so."
For more information:
Simon Vale
Balle Bros. Exports Ltd.
Tel: + 64 9 2370898
Email: simon.vale@ballebros.co.nz
www.ballebros.co.nz