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Pumpkin seeds: potential crop damage due to frost

June 17, 2026 at 12:36 PM , Der AUDITOR
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DALIAN. Overall, the mood on the Chinese pumpkin seed market is positive, but frost events in the growing regions are causing concern. There could be some strategic changes to the acreages.

EU-compliant goods are becoming increasingly scarce

The market for Chinese pumpkin seeds is characterised by a positive sentiment. The availability of EU-compliant goods continues to decline in the countries of origin, which is why many importers are securing their requirements for the near future. The tight supply situation is underpinning firm price trends and limiting buyers’ room for negotiation. This has led to further increases in export prices of USD 50-60/mt. As a result, pumpkin seeds, GWS, grade A currently cost USD 3,660/mt CFR EMP, while shine skins, grade A are trading at USD 2,640/mt CFR EMP.

Pumpkin kernels, China

Type

USD/mt

GWS, Grade A

3,660

GWS, Grade AA

4,015

Shine Skin, Grade A

2,640

Shine Skin, Grade AA

4,160

CFR EMP

Uncertain crop prospects and rising costs

The outlook for the new crop remains fraught with uncertainty. Frosts in certain growing regions have raised fears of damage to seed and early crops, as reported by the experts at Chelmer Foods. Should it no longer be possible to resow, acreage could be switched to other crops. Although the expected impact on yields is considered to be limited, it highlights the tight supply situation.

According to Chelmer Foods, shifts in acreage are becoming apparent: an increase of around 7% in the acreage planted with the shine skin variety is reported, whilst the acreage planted with GWS kernels is said to have fallen by around 15%. Official data from China remains limited, which further sustains the high price levels. In addition, high oil prices are affecting costs throughout the supply chain. Processing, domestic logistics and sea freight are all becoming more expensive, which further supports the firm trend in the pumpkin seed market.

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price chart pumpkin kernels, GWS, grade AA, China
price chart, pumpkin kernels, Shine Skin, grade AA, China
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Price chart pumpkin seeds, GWS, grade A
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Price chart pumpkin seeds, hulled, Shine Skin, grade A

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