Operators in the chia market last week came back from SIAL with an interesting take away: chia seeds are increasingly scarce. Especially certified organic chia seeds are not easy to obtain, as some produce is contaminated with residues such as fosetyl and paraquat. According to buyers and sellers, organic chia seeds are now offered at US$2800 USD per ton FOB origin. It’s increasingly hard to secure produce at the previous price (of early October 2024) of USD2450-2600 FOB. Conventional chia seeds also increased in price, but slightly, from about 2100-2200 to 2300 US$/ton FOB.
The autumn trade fair of SIAL (19-23 October 2024) comes at an interesting point in time. In the main origin Paraguay the season is well on its way since June, and the initial deals, often at low prices, have been made and fulfilled. For buyers returning from summer holidays and anticipating Xmas season, this is the time to secure their deals. We are noticing strong demand in Europe, even with higher prices.
Mercadero continues to offer organic and conventional chia seeds which are EU compliant, from the origins Paraguay, Kenya and Uganda. Please reach out for a current quote.