The wool market softened again this week, with the Eastern Market Indicator falling 29¢ to finish at 1,427 ¢/kg clean. It was the third straight weekly decline following the strong rally through early spring, though the EMI remains 26 % or 296 ¢ higher year-on-year.
A total of 29,404 bales were sold nationally, with 12.8 % passed in as buyers remained selective.
In Sydney, fine wools led the retreat, with the 17 MPG down 58 ¢ to 2,025 ¢ and the 19 MPG easing 19 ¢ to 1,732 ¢, while the 28 MPG held firm at 645 ¢. Melbourne followed a similar pattern, with the 17 MPG falling 76 ¢ to 2,013 ¢ and the 19 MPG dropping 46 ¢ to 1,725 ¢, while the 30 MPG eased 7 ¢ to 573 ¢. Cardings softened to 818 ¢ in the north and 746 ¢ in the south.
Out west, Fremantle mirrored the eastern centres. The 18 MPG slipped 45 ¢ to 1,875 ¢ and the 19 MPG lost 24 ¢ to 1,736 ¢. Crossbreds again proved more resilient, with the 28 MPG slipping 20 ¢ to 650 ¢ and the 30 MPG easing 7 ¢ to 573 ¢.
On an interesting note, AWEX this week launched the “Step-Up Bonus,” offering a $5 per bale rebate for wool sold under the Sustainawool or Responsiwool (AWSS) program. The initiative aims to boost grower participation in certified sustainability schemes. While modest in value, it comes as the Australian dollar trades around US 65 ¢ and 56 ¢ against the euro, levels that enhance export competitiveness. Stronger sustainability credentials, coupled with a weaker currency, could help bolster demand from European and premium apparel markets seeking ethically sourced fibre.
This week in Mecardo, Andrew Woods looked at the fine merino premiums (see article here). He showed that 14.5–18.5 micron categories remain below their 15-year medians in real terms, while broader 20–21 micron wools sit closer to long-term averages. The narrowing premium between 16 and 18 micron types reflects a more selective luxury apparel market, where superfine, well-prepared clips continue to attract strong demand, but general fine merino categories remain under pressure.
The week ahead….
With 38,737 bales rostered across Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle on Tuesday and Wednesday, the market will look for signs of steadier demand amid high offerings.
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Soft sentiment and high supply test the market
In Sydney, fine wools led the retreat, with the 17 MPG down 58 ¢ to 2,025 ¢ and the 19 MPG easing 19 ¢ to 1,732 ¢, while the 28 MPG held firm at 645 ¢. Melbourne followed a similar pattern, with the 17 MPG falling 76 ¢ to 2,013 ¢ and the 19 MPG dropping 46 ¢ to 1,725 ¢, while the 30 MPG eased 7 ¢ to 573 ¢. Cardings softened to 818 ¢ in the north and 746 ¢ in the south.
Out west, Fremantle mirrored the eastern centres. The 18 MPG slipped 45 ¢ to 1,875 ¢ and the 19 MPG lost 24 ¢ to 1,736 ¢. Crossbreds again proved more resilient, with the 28 MPG slipping 20 ¢ to 650 ¢ and the 30 MPG easing 7 ¢ to 573 ¢.
On an interesting note, AWEX this week launched the “Step-Up Bonus,” offering a $5 per bale rebate for wool sold under the Sustainawool or Responsiwool (AWSS) program. The initiative aims to boost grower participation in certified sustainability schemes. While modest in value, it comes as the Australian dollar trades around US 65 ¢ and 56 ¢ against the euro, levels that enhance export competitiveness. Stronger sustainability credentials, coupled with a weaker currency, could help bolster demand from European and premium apparel markets seeking ethically sourced fibre.
This week in Mecardo, Andrew Woods looked at the fine merino premiums (see article here). He showed that 14.5–18.5 micron categories remain below their 15-year medians in real terms, while broader 20–21 micron wools sit closer to long-term averages. The narrowing premium between 16 and 18 micron types reflects a more selective luxury apparel market, where superfine, well-prepared clips continue to attract strong demand, but general fine merino categories remain under pressure.
The week ahead….
With 38,737 bales rostered across Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle on Tuesday and Wednesday, the market will look for signs of steadier demand amid high offerings.
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Data sources: AWEX, AWI, Mecardo
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Independent analysis and outlook for wool, livestock and grain markets delivered to you as it’s published
Listen to the podcast
Join the Mecardo team for the Commodity Conversations podcast, where we provide short weekly market recaps and longer conversations with guests to discuss the drivers and trends in livestock, grain and fibre markets.
MEET THE TEAM
Our team of market analysts are recognised as leaders in Australian Ag market analysis, providing invaluable insights to help you navigate the ever-changing commodity landscape.
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We don’t just bring you the most up to date market insights. Find out more about Mecardo’s services including risk management advisory, modelling, benchmarking, research & consultancy.