The nationwide shortage of truck drivers continues to affect many aspects of the market, from prices for product to the availability of packing supplies. The holiday week saw some spot shortages of gasoline, but supplies were mostly adequate. Temporary delivery issues and associated pump outages have been reported in parts of Colorado, the Florida Keys, central Iowa, south central Ohio, Washington, and Oregon. A tight supply of workers remains a challenge for most sectors, but most especially for retail. The hot weather in the western U.S. and Canada is further impacting an already tight pool of farm workers and support staff, as their hours must be curtailed due to the extreme conditions. This impacts supplies, condition of the products and may adversely impact market prices.
Peru's asparagus movement is expected to increase slightly. Trading on Jumbo size was active, and active for extra large at slightly lower prices, while trading on other sizes was moderate. Prices on jumbo size were slightly higher, and extra large size slightly lower. Prices for standard size asparagus are generally unchanged. Movement of asparagus crossings from Mexico is expected to remain about the same. Trading early in the week was active, late in the week moderate.
Mexican cucumber crossings through Texas are expected about the same, with trading early fairly active and later active at higher prices. Movement from Mexico crossing through Otay Mesa is expected to remain the same. Trading was active with prices on medium generally unchanged, others slightly higher. Movement and prices are being impacted by a slight shortage of trucks and high freight rates. Movement of cucumbers from South Georgia is expected to decrease as most shippers are finished for the season.
U.S. Mexico Canada agreement seasonal perishable products