COMMERCIAL.

Press, Volume L, Issue 8483, 15 May 1893, Page 3

COMMERCIAL.

During three weeks of the interval which has elapsed since our last summary was published a gentle and continuous rain has fallen-, which, with mild temperature throughout, has had most beneficial effects upon the whole Canterbury pasture lands. The regularity of the trade in such products as butter and meat since practical science has given us creameries, dairy factories and freezing works, is an important factor in our commercial prosperity. Iv this, connection it is reported that a large firm of produce dealers, Messrs Thompson Bros., of Canada, are about to establish twenty dairy factories in New Zealand.

In the import market no prominent features have appeared. Well assorted shipments have arrived as usual by the direct liners, but no unduly heavy items have been put on the market. The Ephialtes and Jorgen Bang have reached first ports from New York, and should land their Lyttelton cargo during the mouth. Wines and spirits are without change. The winter lines have seen fair business, though mild weather has prevented any check.to the consumption of beers. Ag6nts report good demand for Read firos; ale and stout, Denis Mounie and G.VfP.' brandies, aud GreeDlees' whiskies, while no more than the usual attention has been given to outside brands.

Grocery houses have kept up their turnover, but no speculative business has occurred. Good lines of currants have been placed at' 4,d, and of candles at slightly easier rates, while Juno and Derby tobaccos are firm, with good demand. Kerosene is worth Is 2£d to •Is 3d for wholesale parcels, Snowdrop sugars £25 10s to £25 15s; best brands of salmon 9a 6d to 9s 9d, fine salt £4, Japau rice £18s 10s to £19, Van Houteu's cocoa 3s 2d for pounds, cream of tat tar in bulk Is., Desirable blending teas are wanted, and fancy prices are obtainable for point and cup quality. The opening of the Indian,market is anxiously awaited.

The building and iron trades are steady, and fairly satisfactory, though up rush of business ia reported. Cement has had moderate attention at rates favouring buyers, uuder 10s i.b. _ex ship having been accepted.