Mumbai, December 12 (Commodities Control): Maize prices traded within a range but maintained a positive bias as declining arrivals lent support to the market.
In the Jalgaon zone, warehouse prices were steady at ₹2,350–2,375 per quintal compared to the previous session. While warehouse buying has slowed due to completed procurement, supply pressures from Sillod (ghat line) are keeping prices in check. Around 600–700 tons arrived in Amalner mandi today, down from last week's 700–800 tons, with peak arrivals previously hitting 1,500–1,600 tons. Arrivals are expected to remain in this reduced range in the coming weeks.
In Mumbai, export demand strengthened slightly, with prices rising to ₹2,460–2,475 per quintal, an increase of ₹20–₹30. This export-driven demand could support prices in the near term.
In Karnataka, arrivals increased to 40,000 tons from 30,000 tons the previous week. Prices for quality supplies are trading at ₹2,400 per quintal (warehouse delivered). While overall arrivals have dropped to 50–60% of peak levels, districts like Chitradurga and Kottur are maintaining good arrival rates due to later crop cycles.
Other Key Markets
- Chhindwara mandi prices were steady at ₹2,250–2,300 per quintal, with ex-warehouse prices at ₹2,380–2,400 per quintal. Arrivals are expected to decline in a few weeks due to production losses caused by heavy rains during harvest.
- Rajasthan ex-warehouse prices are among the highest in India at ₹2,500–2,520 per quintal, with rake loaders buying at ₹2,480 per quintal.
- Gulabbagh prices remained steady at ₹2,600–2,650 per quintal. Despite two vessels arriving at Kolkata port from Myanmar priced at USD 285–288 per ton, no significant price declines are expected due to strong demand from the poultry and ethanol sectors.
Maize prices in North Maharashtra are likely to trade steady to firm in the near term, supported by steady demand and declining arrivals. In Karnataka, prices are expected to remain rangebound, with a potential uptick as arrivals taper off.
Looking ahead, prices across India are likely to remain stable for the next few weeks as supplies moderate. A notable price increase is anticipated afterward due to significant reductions in arrivals and sustained demand from key sectors such as poultry, ethanol, and exports.
(By Commoditiescontrol Bureau; +91 98201 3018)