Dried Fruits Price Comparisons

Last updated: September 2, 2024

The dried fruit industry is a complex landscape where prices fluctuate based on a variety of factors, including supply and demand, production costs, and global trade dynamics. For anyone involved in the dried fruit market—whether you’re a producer, trader, wholesaler, or retailer—understanding price comparisons is key to making informed business decisions.

In this blog, we’ll explore the key elements influencing dried fruit prices, provide real-life examples of price differences between similar products, and answer some frequently asked questions by industry professionals. Using data from Vesper, we’ll specifically examine the pricing differences between Desiccated Coconut, Fine and Desiccated Coconut, Medium to illustrate how businesses can leverage these insights.

What Influences Price Comparisons in Dried Fruits?

Quality Grades

Different grades of the same dried fruit, such as Fine and Medium for desiccated coconut, can have varying prices. Fine grades are often more expensive due to higher processing standards and consumer demand for premium quality.

Supply Chain Dynamics

The availability and cost of transportation, storage, and handling can impact the final price of dried fruits. Products sourced closer to the consumer market might be cheaper than those requiring extensive shipping.

Production Costs

The cost of labor, energy, and raw materials directly affects the prices of dried fruits. Variations in production methods and technologies also play a role in the price differentiation between similar products.

Market Demand and Seasonality

Consumer demand, which can fluctuate based on seasonality or market trends, affects pricing. Higher demand for a specific grade or type can lead to price increases, especially if supply is limited.

Currency Fluctuations and Trade Policies

Since dried fruits are traded globally, currency exchange rates and international trade policies can cause significant price variations in different markets.

Real-Life Example: Price Differences Between Desiccated Coconut, Fine and Medium

Using data from Vesper, an online commodity intelligence platform, we can observe how prices differ between two grades of the same product—Desiccated Coconut, Fine and Desiccated Coconut, Medium, see Figure below.

 

Desiccated Coconut, Fine and Desiccated Coconut, Medium prices

  • Desiccated Coconut, Fine (CFR Indonesia): Over the past year, prices for Desiccated Coconut, Fine have generally been higher than those for the Medium grade. Starting in early February 2023 at around $1,600 per metric ton, prices steadily increased, peaking at approximately $2,800 per metric ton in late July 2023 before slightly declining.
  • Desiccated Coconut, Medium (CFR Indonesia): Prices for Desiccated Coconut, Medium followed a similar trend but remained consistently lower than the Fine grade. Beginning at approximately $1,500 per metric ton in early February 2023, prices also peaked in late July 2023, but at a slightly lower rate of around $2,750 per metric ton.

What Do These Differences Mean for Businesses?

Buyers

If you’re a buyer, understanding the price differences between Fine and Medium grades can help you decide which product to purchase based on your budget and quality requirements. For instance, a bakery that needs high-quality desiccated coconut for premium products might opt for the Fine grade, while another might choose the Medium grade to manage costs without compromising too much on quality.

Sellers

As a seller, knowing these pricing differences allows you to strategize your inventory and sales. If the Fine grade has a higher profit margin but slower turnover, you might balance your stock with the Medium grade to maintain cash flow and attract a broader customer base.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dried Fruit Price Comparisons

Why do prices for the same type of dried fruit vary so much?

Prices can vary due to differences in quality grades, supply chain costs, production expenses, and market demand. Higher quality grades often fetch higher prices, and costs associated with logistics and tariffs can further influence price variations.

How can I find the best prices for dried fruits?

To find the best prices for dried fruits, utilize commodity intelligence platforms like Vesper, which provide real-time data, trend analyses, and pricing forecasts specifically tailored to dried fruits. Government agricultural reports, such as those from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and European Union Agricultural Markets Briefs, offer reliable data on production, pricing, and market trends. Additionally, trade associations and industry networks like the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC) provide market insights, price updates, and networking opportunities that can help you access competitive pricing.

What factors should I consider when comparing dried fruit prices?

When comparing prices, consider the quality grade, source, production costs, seasonality, and any additional costs like shipping and tariffs. Understanding these elements will help you make more informed purchasing or selling decisions.

Are there seasonal trends in dried fruit prices?

Yes, prices for dried fruits often follow seasonal trends, influenced by harvest periods, climate conditions, and consumer demand cycles. For example, prices may rise during off-harvest seasons or holidays when demand spikes.

Example: Consider the price of dried apricots. The harvest season for fresh apricots typically occurs from May to August, and during this period, the supply of fresh apricots is high, which keeps the prices of both fresh and dried apricots relatively stable or lower. However, in the off-harvest months, particularly in winter, the supply of fresh apricots diminishes, leading to an increased demand for dried apricots. As a result, prices for dried apricots often rise during these off-season months and around the holiday season when they are commonly used in festive dishes and gift basket

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