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Pumpkin seeds: supply situation remains tense

October 22, 2025 at 9:32 AM , Der AUDITOR
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DALIAN. A smaller crop in China means that demand currently exceeds supply in many cases. EU-conforming goods are particularly difficult to find. Some packers are already charging a surcharge for prompt shipments.

Speculators are holding back goods

In their latest report, the experts at Chelmer Foods provide an overview of the current situation on the pumpkin seed market. They report that market sentiment remains stable and price fluctuations are minimal. Demand for conventional pumpkin seeds remains high, mainly due to the relatively small crop in China. Limited availability is prompting speculators to hold back large quantities of their goods in the hope of imminent price increases. However, experts see no signs of price pressure.

Hardly any EU-compliant pumpkin seeds

Chinese suppliers are currently very active and are delivering large quantities to global markets. This is maintaining supply, but the shortage remains acute. It is particularly difficult for buyers to purchase pumpkin seeds that meet EU quality standards, which have high pesticide requirements. As there is hardly any suitable product available, the prices for EU-compliant pumpkin seeds are particularly high. Regulatory controls are increasing and demand in Europe exceeds the availability of suitable goods. Buyers are trying to secure sufficient goods well in advance to counteract bottlenecks.

Surcharge for faster shipments

Although the new crop is slowly reaching the markets, it cannot keep pace with buying interest, and some packers are taking advantage of this by charging surcharges for prompt shipments. More and more buyers seem willing to pay the higher prices for guaranteed and fast shipment, so it is likely that more packers will follow suit. Chelmer Foods expects prices to remain largely stable for the time being, at least until larger crop volumes reach the market. The price indication for pumpkin seeds, GWS, Grade A is currently USD 3,100/mt FOB Dalian.

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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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