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Pistachios: exports decline by 22%

May 5, 2020 at 9:12 AM , Der AUDITOR
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TEHRAN. Pistachio exports from Iran declined by around 22% in the first half of the season as compared with 2017/2018. A drastic rise has, however, been recorded in March.

Surprising turn in March exports

Iran shipped 85,094 metric tonnes of pistachios overseas between October 2019 and March 2020. Although this figure presents a sharp rise of 290% over the same period last season, exports have declined by 22% on the same period in 2017/2018 when overseas shipments ranged at 109,403 metric tonnes. Since 2019/2020 and 2017/2018 are both on years in terms of biannual production cycle a comparison between these two seasons is more representative. Market players hold limited supplies, a lack of serious demand and difficult export conditions responsible for the decline in exports. Financial transactions are also problematic. As much as 230,000 metric tonnes were still available in the warehouses at the end of March, around 47% of this season’s total supplies.

Curiously enough, however, exports have risen by 33.4% between 20 February and 20 March as compared with the same period two years ago. They stand at 14,495 metric tonnes as compared with 10,866 metric tonnes. All figures are based on official customs data issued by Iran.

Decline in prices

The coronavirus has prompted a decline in domestic and overseas demand. Transportation is also an issue. Most notably, the prices for Kalu Ghucci varieties have declined by EUR 0.13-0.14 per kg over the last two weeks. The prices for Ahmad Aghaei have declined nominally by EUR 0.03-0.06 per kg. Fandhogi and Akbari pistachios are, however, trading in a stable range.

Pistachios, Iran

Type

EUR/kg

Ahmad Aghaei, 22-24

6.98

Ahmad Aghaei, 24-26

6.71

Akbari, 20-22

7.18

Akbari, 22-24

6.91

Kale Ghuchi, 22-24

6.84

Kale Ghucci, 24-26

6.64

Fandoghi, 30-32

6.17

Fandoghi, 32-34

5.97

FOB Iran

 

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