Audio script:

Welcome to this months pasta parcel. I’m Bobbi Ryan and today we’re filming from Jondaryan on the Darling Downs..

In Northern NSW & Liverpool Plains, Durum planting is about 80% complete. We have had around 500mm of consistent rain across major Durum growing areas this year, which has slowed progress, but planting should be complete over the next fortnight. For growers, there is plenty of positive sentiment and it looks like we could be in for another great Durum crop.

Internationally, US & Canadian crops are still under pressure from hot, dry drought conditions pushing across the Northern Plains & Canadian Prairies. With no reprieve in sight at this time, there is still concern for poor yield and quality. 

This week the USDA estimated U.S. Durum production will be down 46% vs last year at just over 1MMT. And similarly, Canadian production is estimated to be down 20-25% vs last year’s crop.

In Italy, & to the north, harvest is progressing with overall average yields and quality being reported. At the end of June, European Commission production was estimated to be 7.8MMT, up from 7.2MMT last year. This is behind the 8.3MMT five-year average.

In terms of world pasta demand, things are a little quiet right now as pasta makers work through growing warehouse inventories.

Prices look to remain stable to firm though with potential supply issues on the horizon for North America.

New crop Durum prices for today (Thursday 15th July) delivered Moree is $354 and $416 delivered Newcastle.

Thanks for tuning in this month. If you'd like to chat more about Durum markets, please give me a call on 0437 183 247.

Until then, keep an eye out for the next month's update with Sam Toll.

Arrivederci!