There is currently more than enough ginger available on the European market. "We are slowly emerging from a traditionally difficult summer. During this period, consumers tend to think of summer fruits rather than our products. From Brazil, China, and Peru, large volumes of ginger have arrived and continue to arrive, which is putting pressure on prices. In some cases, sales are even below cost," says Bert van Gelder of Sawari Fresh International.
© Sawari Fresh International
According to him, demand usually picks up after the quiet summer months. Retail, meanwhile, is taking off more than planned. "Because of the abundance of product, often of lower quality, I do not expect prices to return to healthy, acceptable levels any time soon. An original box of Brazilian ginger (13.6 kg) now sells for around €17.00, while a well-selected box of Chinese ginger (12.5 kg) costs around €23.00."
Ginger GURU as a quality brand
"Sawari Fresh is focusing on differentiation with the Ginger GURU brand, which packs and presents ginger from multiple origins – including Brazil and China. Every box undergoes our quality control. This way, we tackle problems in advance and give customers the assurance that they will receive a good container of ginger. It pays off for our customers: with Ginger GURU, they are assured of consistent quality and reduced risk, whereas bulk on the free market often leads to problems," says Bert.
© Sawari Fresh International
"The days of just importing are over," Bert continues. "The risks in trade are increasing, and they are simply too high. In addition to price pressure, food safety risks also play a role, such as exceedances of MRL values or contamination with Ralstonia bacteria. The free market hardly leaves room for companies without structured programmes or a clear quality strategy."
Garlic and logistics
"There is also movement in the garlic market. Lower exports from China and smaller harvests in Spain are keeping prices stable. Loose Chinese garlic is quoted at around €24.00 per 10 kg, with packaged garlic currently slightly higher," Bert explains. "Logistics remain a stumbling block. Many ships from Asia are still sailing around Africa. Congestion in Rotterdam and stricter controls are also slowing down imports. For example, we have now started importing ginger from Peru, both organic and conventional, but the transit time is nearly five weeks. That increases the risks going forward."
For more information:
Sawari Fresh International
Transportweg 22
2991 LV Barendrecht
Tel: +31(0)180 472 803
[email protected]
www.sawarifresh.com