Market Update---Week 18

Pumpkin Seeds: The planting area for shineskin in the 2025 crop season is expected to decrease by 40%-50%, while the area for GWS is projected to shrink by around 30%. More precise planting figures will become clearer by late May or early June. Despite weak demand, raw material prices remain firm due to decreased planting area. Prices from May to September are affected by the planting and growing situation of 2025 season. Generally, it is expected to be stable. The new crop shineskin AA grade is anticipated to be about 150/MT higher than current prices, while shineskin A grade may rise by 150/MT

Walnuts: Frost conditions have occurred in Shanxi, Shaanxi, and Hebei regions, which may lead to reduced yields of North variety walnut kernels. This could consequently affect the availability of new crop light quarters and light pieces. Currently, other production areas are experiencing favorable weather conditions. Current crop raw material market is facing shortages, with very limited high-quality supply, and price keep firm.

Raisins: Prices are rising slightly due to tight supply of high-quality raw materials and growing domestic and international demand. This year, the grapes have already started to bear fruit, and we've noticed a relatively high number of grape clusters on the branches. If the weather remains favorable, it should be a year of increased raisin yield. However, whether Sultana raisins see an increase still depends on the quantity of green raisins.