The Dutch onion sector is still adapting to the recent, unexpected market price pressure. At one point, prices were heading toward a euro; now, bale prices are at more of a €0.80-€0.95 level. "The bottom seems to be in sight now," says Eric Moerdijk of grading and packing company Monie.
"Those may have been rising too sharply. Several importers stocked up, which depressed demand for a while, but that extra stock is now being used up. The market's feeling much better, and it seems the low point has been reached, although the supermarkets' Easter orders could distort the picture somewhat."
It is anyone's guess how the rest of the season will unfold, says Eric. "Opinions are divided about current stock levels and how much is still in speculators' hands. But we should manage to bring the season to a good end. There are far fewer European and Egyptian onions. You never know what exports there will still be, but with current availability, it won't go far beyond eight or 9,000 tons a week," he explains.
"The red onion picture looks entirely different. The smaller grades' prices are rising slightly, but the large and supers have been at the same price level for a long time. Red onion sales fluctuate somewhat, and there's still quite a bit of supply." At Monie, 95% of the onions stay in continental Europe. Quality-wise, the onions compare well, according to the packer. "Most of the better batches sell eventually, so the best quality remains. However, you have to watch out for sprouting."
"There are generally only a few people still offering a limited quantity of onions. The stakes are high, but hopefully, there won't be too much panic, and we can all bring the season to a successful conclusion. That's definitely possible this season," Eric concludes.
For more information:
Monie Nieuwdorp
61 Hertenweg
4455 TK, Nieuwdorp, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 113 612 845
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.monie.nl