Last week’s severe winter weather across much of the United States continues to impact markets nationwide. Limited consumer demand for produce items is keeping prices low and shipments light on many commodities. High truck rates and rising diesel fuel prices are also contributing to the lack of movement. While many local governments are going forward with reopening plans for schools and restaurants, buyers are being cautious with their orders to avoid losses from unused inventory on highly perishable fruits and vegetables.
Reporting of Peru asparagus has finished for the season, with limited shipments in too few hands to establish a market. Movement of Mexican asparagus is expected to remain about the same as production has reached its peak and coolers are full. Trading was slow at lower prices, with few open market sales due to the continued cold weather and its effects on consumers limiting demand. Few shipments are being booked at previously committed prices, with some shipments booked open with price to be established later. Limited truck availability to many destinations and delayed orders from retailers mean some orders are being pushed back until next week.
Chilean blueberry arrivals are expected to decrease to both east and west coast ports as the season winds down.
Trading was fairly slow at lower prices. Mexican blueberry movement is expected to increase with trading active to moderate. Prices are lower and quality continues to be variable. Movement of Bell peppers from Mexico crossing through Nogales, Arizona is expected to remain about the same with fairly light to moderate demand and heavy supplies. Prices are much lower with slow trading. Crossing volumes of green Bell peppers from Mexico through Texas are in too few hands to establish a market and reporting has ended for the season.
Some light sales of the limited remaining supplies are reported at very low prices. Transportation of product for distribution to customers remains a major issue. Central and south Florida movement is expected to slightly increase as warmer weather has increased supplies. Demand is fairly light to light, with prices mostly steady, with some sizes slightly lower and all in the single digits.
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