Fine wools (16.5–19μ) came under pressure, averaging declines of 14 cents, led by steeper falls in the 16.5μ and 17.5μ categories, which dropped 15 and 24 cents. Medium wool types (19–22μ) slipped 10 cents, while crossbred wool (25–32μ) matched the softer tone with similar declines. Cardings provided rare uplift, gaining 7 cents, and Merino skirtings outperformed strongly, surging 40 cents for the week, the Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) said in its commentary for week 22 of the current wool marketing season.
Auction volumes jumped 32.2 per cent as growers capitalised on earlier price strength and seasonal shearing flow increased. Despite the heavier supply, the market remained resilient—a positive indicator for growers as the year-end approaches. The clearance rate eased to 90.4 per cent, down 6 per cent from the previous week, reflecting both softer pricing and larger offerings.
The Australian Dollar also strengthened, reclaiming 0.6500 against a backdrop of gradually improving signals from China and a softer USD. China’s 4.0 per cent GDP growth through Q3 and a 2.9 per cent rise in October retail sales point to a slow but improving recovery, helping support Australian wool demand, the AWI commentary added.
Compared with November 2024, fine wools are up 25 per cent, medium wools 35 per cent and crossbreds 46 per cent. The EMI has climbed 31.5 per cent year on year, reflecting tight Australian supply and strengthening global demand.
Next week, 37,581 bales are scheduled across all three selling centres, with Sydney and Melbourne to offer Tuesday–Wednesday and Fremantle selling on Tuesday.
ALCHEMPro News Desk (KD)
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