Pepper remains steady

Our Bureau

Kochi: Black pepper prices remained steady on the Kochi market compared to the previous week because of low all round activity during the week ended April 3. There have been few enquiries with fewer short coverings, said the market sources, adding, that the dull activity was also due to the Easter holidays. Pepper prices opened the week at Rs 18600 per quintal and closed the week lower by Rs 200 at Rs 18400 per quintal. There was no trading for two days. Crop arrivals have been less than the market expectations. Farmers are holding on to their crop for prices to touch Rs 200 a kg. The high prices fetched by pepper in the last two years have made the farmers financially sound, said a few traders. They can afford to hold their stock now, they added.

There are more of prompt shipments for small quantities on the export front because of lower arrivals. The exporters are shying away from entering the long term contract with forwards.

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