Skirtings continued to be in very strong demand, with large price gains in all centres for all types, including those with high levels of Vegetable Matter.  AWEX quoted increases of 50¢ to 70¢ greasy for the week. Crossbred wools, in general, were down by small amounts, apart from 32 microns, where the average AWEX Micron Price Guide (MPGs) was slightly above last week.  Oddments were a bit mixed, but most prices were generally firm.

Buyers for China were dominant this week, followed by strong support from buyers for Europe and India.  The buying for Europe was very strong.

Sales will be held in Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle next week, when 52,822 bales are currently rostered for sale.  Present estimates for the following two sales (Weeks 19 and 20) are 42,482 and 47,100 bales, respectively; an increase of 13.4% over the three sale period when compared with last year. The New Zealand Merino Company is rostered to offer 1,800 bales in Melbourne next week.

Australian Wool Industries Secretariat Inc (AWIS)