Australian wool prices edge higher, quality gap weighs on market

The Australian wool market ended the week slightly higher, with the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) rising 2 cents to 1,897 ac/kg, while US dollar returns eased by 6 usc to 1,352 usc/kg. In contrast, the Western Market Indicator (WMI) declined on its sole selling day, falling 11 ac/kg to 2,114 ac/kg and 16 usc to 1,507 usc/kg, snapping a seven-day gaining streak.

A marginally weaker US dollar lent support to returns, while the Australian dollar, holding firm at $0.71-0.72, continued to cap gains in US dollar terms, Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) noted in its Week 44 commentary (week ending May 1, 2026).

Australian wool prices edged higher, with EMI up slightly, though US dollar returns weakened and WMI declined.
Mixed trends were seen across wool types, with crossbreds gaining and Merino types easing.
A larger offering increased quality variation, leading to discounts on lower-grade wool.
With supply set to fall to 34,290 bales next week, market direction will depend on demand and quality.

Price trends were mixed across wool types. Fine Merino (16.5-19 micron) gained 5-10 cents in the North but declined 10-20 cents in the South and West. Medium Merino (19.5-24 micron) eased 5-15 cents in the North and South and dropped 15-35 cents in the West. Crossbreds (25-32 micron) rose 10-30 cents across most centres, while Merino cardings were mixed but generally firm, according to AWI commentary.

The week’s higher offering of 37,744 bales, up by 4,078 bales, introduced a broader quality mix, resulting in heavier discounting for lower-grade wool and a softer underlying tone. While better-quality lots attracted steady demand, weaker lines, especially in Melbourne put pressure on overall market sentiment as per the AWI commentary.

Looking ahead, next week’s offering is expected to decline by around 3,500 bales to 34,290 bales, which could provide some support, AWI commentary noted.

However, outcomes will depend on buyer confidence and the quality profile of the catalogue, as demand remains selective, AWI commentary observed.

The upcoming sales will feature Fremantle on Tuesday, while Sydney and Melbourne will follow a Tuesday-Wednesday roster.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (CG)