The season for Dutch red onions has been very different from previous years. "In recent years, we were spoiled because the season started early due to crop failures in other countries. This season has been quiet for a long time, and we are seeing more of the pattern from before the Corona years. But now, the season is gaining momentum," says Carl van de Wiel of Agro Centre Holland.
© Agro Centre Holland
25% less seed available, 35% more sown out
"This year, we are seeing a significant expansion in red onion acreage. Although 25% less seed was available, as much as 35% more was sown. People came from all over Europe looking for red onion seed, with varying degrees of success. The early-lifted onions generally did not disappoint, but storability is an issue. For example, many onions have thick necks. In my view, it is often just not quite right. And the problems with seed shortages are not yet solved for next year either," Carl continues.
"Current demand for onions is mainly coming from Europe. Overseas, red onions were shipped to the Philippines, but in the Far East, we face heavy competition from India. That country supplies red onions for $300 per ton. We cannot compete with that once transport costs are added. But much can still happen; the season is still at least six months long," Carl says.
© Agro Centre Holland
More red onions to Africa
"Conveniently, Africa is now buying more and more red onions. They grow more pink onions locally, which they also import from India and Pakistan, but they are increasingly accepting our purple-red onions as well. The condition is that the onions must not be too expensive compared to yellow onions. If prices are on the same level, a share of red onions may go that way. But if the price difference becomes too large, no red onions will go to Africa."
In any case, high prices are not an issue this year. "At the farm gate, we pay 12 to 16 cents, depending on size and quality. Considering that afland prices were around 20 cents, losses are inevitable. In the bale, red onion prices are roughly between 22 cents for the small sizes and 31 cents for the coarse ones," the onion trader explains. He does not see the lower prices as entirely negative. "Every year is different. We have had very good years, and now we are correcting. I don't mind that; it is fine for the market to be shaken up."
© Agro Centre Holland
Barely exporting shallots
"Overall, I think the quality of red onions is slightly better than yellow onions. I do hear about fusarium issues in red onions as well, but fortunately, we have not experienced this in storage ourselves," Carl says. Finally, he is brief about the shallot market. "It is not moving at all yet. At the moment, hardly any shallots are leaving, so we will have to wait and see whether some demand develops in spring."
For more information:
Carl van de Wiel
Agro Centre Holland
Neerhofstraat 8
4761 BM Zevenbergen
Tel: +31 (0) 168 371230
[email protected]
www.red-onion.com
