Mumbai, September 11 (CommoditiesControl):
Domestic pepper prices have resumed their upward trajectory following a steady session yesterday, driven by strong buying activity and limited selling. Traders in Karnataka and Kerala's main markets observe that demand remains robust, with sellers reluctant to release stocks. This dynamic suggests that pepper prices are likely to stay elevated in the near term. Additionally, rising global prices are expected to provide further support to domestic pepper markets.
In terms of weather, pepper-growing regions have experienced below-average rainfall over the past two weeks. However, recent moderate rains are expected to benefit crop development. Farmers report that the crop is generally in good condition but may require one or two additional showers as the monsoon period ends.
Current prices in Cochin show a quintal of ungarbled pepper at Rs 66,100, garbled pepper at Rs 68,100, and 500 grams of pepper at Rs 65,100. In Karnataka, prices range between Rs 66,000 and Rs 68,300 per quintal. Despite higher imports from Brazil and Vietnam this season, strong domestic demand has kept prices buoyant.
In Vietnam, pepper prices are reported between 152,000 and 154,000 VND per kilogram, marking a stable to higher trend compared to previous sessions. Some provinces have seen price increases of up to VND 1,000 per kg. Tight supply coupled with rising global prices is anticipated to support these higher price levels in the Vietnamese market. Conversely, FOB prices are mixed, with sharp increases in Vietnam contrasted by slight declines in Brazil.
For the time being, domestic pepper prices are expected to maintain stability with a possible negative bias in the short term before resuming an upward trend. Significant price declines seem unlikely due to ongoing crop concerns in Brazil, where severe drought has impacted production, and the general upward movement in global prices.
Kochi Prices (INR per Quintal):
- Ungarbled: 66,100
- Garbled: 68,100
- 500gl: 64,900
Karnataka Prices (INR per Quintal):
- Kushalnagar: 66,000–68,200
- Chikamagalore: 66,000–68,300
FOB Quotes (USD/MT) for Black Pepper:
- Brazil ASTA: 7,400
- Vietnam 500gl: 7,100
- Vietnam 550gl: 7,225
- Indonesia ASTA: 7,557
- Malaysia: 8,800 (Ringgit/MT)
(By CommoditiesControl Bureau; +91-9820130172)