Garlic: multi-year low in China
August 10, 2026 at 4:29 PM ,
Der AUDITOR
Price drivers in the US
As Olam reports harvesting is underway and progressing according to plan in the US so far. Drying began in early July. The warm and dry conditions in California during late winter have only had a minor impact so far. Demand for granulated, chopped, sliced, BI-controlled and roasted garlic has remained strong over the past twelve months. However, stocks are very limited as the market transitions to the new crop. Fertilisers, energy and fuel will drive costs. Overall, costs are expected to rise in line with inflation. Higher prices are still expected for certain scarce products, as well as for roasted and BI-controlled goods. In addition, the cost of irradiating dried garlic products for microbiological and hygiene control is set to rise by an estimated 8%.
Low garlic flake stocks in China
In May, China's fresh garlic stocks were much higher than last year. Following the completion of the harvest, yields were better than expected, meaning that total production remains at a high level, according to Ofi. At the same time, the garlic flake stocks from the previous crop have fallen to the lowest level of the past six years of around 200,000 mt. In the past one to two weeks, prices for fresh garlic and garlic flakes have risen. Stronger demand at lower price levels, coupled with speculators’ reluctance to sell goods purchased at higher prices, is supporting the market. Exporters and processors are continuing to build up stocks. International buyers are also showing interest in longer-term contracts.
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