Dutch onion exporters are waiting in anticipation for Senegal to open. "They are meeting today; so we will soon know more. The market might open immediately," says William Nannes of J.P. Beemsterboer.
"However, it could just as easily be 1 September. In any case, we will soon be able to export to Senegal again. The first loads are already underway or will be soon."
The Senegalese market is the Netherlands onion export sector's largest export destination. It is also a hub in Africa. Its opening is always an important event for Dutch exporters.
"They always prepare their local product first. So, the decision is made to open the market late. Prices are good at the moment, so that is good. The first arrivals can be sold successfully," William expects.
The exporters could use a little extra demand too. "Packers always have work cut out for them during the offloading period. But, we are not sitting on export figures of 25,000 tons plus. The advantage is that our onions are sold everywhere."
"No-one is taking massive volumes. But for these prices, Dutch onions can be sent anywhere. Except for Mauritania, the whole of West Africa participates. Brazil is falling away now. The Middle and Far East are, however, within our reach again," the exporter continues.
Bale prices are currently at around the EUR0,18 level. "It would be great if we could continue at this level. Growers, packers, as well as exporters, can then earn something. All these fluctuations cause uncertainty."
"I do not expect spectacular prices this year. At most, we will soon see some differences between planted and seedling onions. That is when there are more seedling onions available," William concludes.
For more information:
William Nannes
J.P. Beemsterboer Food Traders
Tel: +31 (0) 226 39 64 08
wnannes@beemsterboer.nl
www.beemsterboer.nl