Buyers are currently being sought on the carrot market. "Senegal closed its borders on December 5 this year. So the last carrots went there two weeks ago. In the first half of the season, Senegal is an important market for us. But that country closes its borders a little earlier every year," says Paul van der Linde (pictured). He is responsible for carrot buying and selling at Van der Linde in the Netherlands.
"Europe usually takes over. However, that's happening very slowly now and at very low prices. Frost hasn't yet set in anywhere. There are no ruined harvests which is what we need at present. Also, yields are excellent. In recent years, we've been left with very little surplus. Now, we have huge volumes. Boxes of 700 kg are no exception this year."
The carrot market outlook, thus, looks quite daunting too. "Good-quality carrots are selling for €0.05. Many are contracted for €0.09 or €0.10, so do the math. Sales should've been better around Saint Nicholas Day." What could save the market? "If it begins truly freezing within a week. That will boost the market. But that has to happen soon. If the frost only arrives in mid-January, all the cold stores are already full," concludes Paul.
For more information:
Paul van der Linde
Van der Linde
Tel: +31 (0) 652 063 601
Email: Paulvanderlinde@vanderlindebv.com
Website: www.vanderlindebv.com