Australian wool prices climb again as exporters drive demand

The Australian wool market extended its upward momentum this week, consolidating last week’s strong gains as prices strengthened across both selling days. Most of the rise was recorded on Tuesday, followed by steadier but still positive buying on the second day.

The Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) rose by 41 cents to finish at 1,689 c/kg, while the Western Market Indicator (WMI) gained 32 cents to close at 1,878 c/kg. Both Merino and crossbred wools found solid support across the catalogue, the Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) said in its commentary for week 30 of the current wool marketing season.

Fine Merino fleece of 19 microns and below advanced by 30–35 cents, while medium Merino types between 19.5 and 24.0 microns finished 25–30 cents higher. Crossbred wools posted particularly strong gains of 35–40 cents, with cardings improving by 15–20 cents.

Australian wool prices strengthened again this week, with the EMI rising 41 cents to 1,689 c/kg and broad gains across Merino and crossbred types.
Exporters led buying, supported by direct Chinese demand, allowing the market to absorb the season’s largest offering so far.
With another elevated catalogue due next week, market resilience ahead of the Chinese New Year recess will be closely watched.

Buying support was led mainly by Australian exporters, reflecting strong offshore order coverage across fleece, skirting and oddment categories. Direct Chinese buying, combined with broad exporter competition, underpinned a confident demand tone and helped sustain upward price momentum, the AWI commentary added.

The Australian dollar continued to firm, trading near 0.68 against the US dollar, supported by improved risk sentiment and a steady policy outlook. While a stronger currency may temper some export-side price support, conditions remain broadly favourable for demand.

Supply increased sharply, with offerings rising to 43,497 bales, the largest of the season so far, as growers responded to strong prices across micron categories. Despite the higher volume, the market absorbed the supply comfortably, supported by high clearance rates. Next week’s offering is set to rise further to 43,997 bales, providing a key test of buyer depth ahead of the mid-February Chinese New Year auction recess.

Sale days will shift to Wednesday and Thursday due to the Australia Day public holiday.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KD)