Price Increases For Dried Apricots

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32222, 14 February 1970, Page 16

Price Increases For Dried Apricots

<By our Grocery Reporter) Prices for the new season’s Australian dried apricots have been increased between 23 per cent and 31 per cent, depending on grade.

There has also been a sharp increase in prices for Californian prunes, and small increases in the prices of dates and figs. The new prices for South African dried apricots are slightly lower than the Australian. However, indications are that prices could rise because of the smaller crop in Australia. The quantity of Australian dried apricots available for export is much lower than originally expected, and a limited tonnage will be allocated to all markets. New Zealand suppliers are likely to be under an allocation. First deliveries of fruit from the Australian packing companies are mainly in the higher grades. It is expected that the choice large grade will predominate.

Pineapple Pack.—New season’® prices have been announced for delivery from the summer pack of Australian pineapple. Quotations are slightly higher but retail prices are unlikely to be affected. The Parera will load in Brisbane for Lyttelton during the last week of February. Space on the ship is limited. Russian Salmon.—The New Zealand agents for Socra brand canned salmon have asked their suppliers to reserve from last season’s catch a quantity for shipment at the end of May. This action has been taken becaust some canned flsh are expected to be removed from import licensing as from July 1. The shipment is subject to licences not being needed for imports after June 30. Because of the present shortage and the higli prices of Japanese and Canadian salmon many buyers are taking advantage of the agents’ offer.