Supplies of Brazilian ginger into the US are steady. “Even though Brazil planted about 30 percent less ginger compared to last year, there is enough product available,” says Apanatche Bark with Pommer Fresh Foods. “Last year, large supplies caused prices to be low and growers responded this year by planting less acreage.”
Fair prices
Last year, prices fluctuated between $15 and $18 per 30 lb. box. This year, prices are ranging between $24 and $30 for a box. “Right now, it is $32 and I consider this a fair price,” said Bark.
Ginger from Brazil is shipped by air to the US between April and June. “That time of the year, the ginger is very young and more fragile,” shared Bark. “Therefore, it is shipped by air. From July through mid-November, the ginger is fully mature and ships well by boat.” The journey to Florida takes about 12-15 days.
Competition from Peru
In addition to Brazil, Peru also just started shipping ginger to the US. Since shipments from Peru just started, Bark is not sure how the market will be impacted. “I know volumes from China have reduced significantly as more than 80 percent of Anqiu ginger factories have been temporarily closed due to non-compliance with regulations for the air-drying equipment.” This may result in a better balance of the market this year.
All in all, Bark is positive about this year’s market environment. “The market is fair, responsible and professional,” he mentioned. “Last year, it was flooded with over loopers who were offering to export ginger from Brazil to inexperienced US importers because of the large supplies in the market. They really brought the prices down. Since this year’s prices are higher, they need to make a bigger investment to be active in the market and as a result, many of these have adventurers have disappeared.”
For more information:
Apanatche Bark
Pommer Fresh Foods, Inc.
Tel: (754) 701 5767