Muntok white pepper exporters in a squeezed situation

The crop yield of Muntok white pepper from Bangka and Belitung has dropped with about 50% compared to last year, perhaps even less.

Due to the low prices farmers have neglected the pepper gardens, resulting in a much lower output. Some exporters have sold in advance, together with local speculators they are in hot pursuit for very grain of white pepper they can get their hands on. Prices have firmed up by about 10% in the last 10 days. Currently the outlook is that only some 5,000 mtons will become available this year. We urge you to cover your requirements and to re-evaluate your positions. Please contact our office for actual updates and firm offers.