Lemon Oil Citrus limon (L.) Burm. F. Harvest: May - July

Due to rains there has been some delays during April and May to the start of the season which has put some additional pressure on both the oil and fresh fruit markets. It was widely expected that Argentinian lemons would be exported earlier to relieve some pressure on fresh fruit supplies in Europe but the 4-5 week delay only helped push local prices in Spain up another 5-10%. According to some Argentinian processors the delays are also expected to have an impact on fruit yields but to what extend cannot be verified.

Despite this minor setback there have been significant increases in production over the past 12 months and based on the most recent forecasts, as much as 1.45 MMT (Million Metric Tonnes) of fresh lemons will be produced in the 2015/16 season. However, other reports suggest that the figure will be closer to the 1,300,000 MT we saw last year, especially after these recent harvest delays.

According to Uno Entre Rios Argentina’s total citrus production amounts to 2,600,000 tons, 55-60% of which correspond to lemons. In 2015, Argentina exported 95% of the lemon it harvested for 600 million dollars; 70% of these lemons were processed and sold as juices and oil. Argentina has 50,000 hectares devoted to the cultivation of lemons, 90% of which is located in Tucuman, and the remaining 10% is in Salta, Jujuy, Entre Rios, and Corrientes. The country’s lemon average yield is 35 tons per hectare. The industry employs around 50,000 people in Tucuman alone, the largest generator of jobs in the region.

We have already seen the impact on the lemon oil market as supplies rebalance and with it, to some extent, prices. That said, this doesn’t apply for all regions as the European fresh fruit and oil markets face far different scenarios, which will also play a role in Argentina’s pricing, as demand for them will increase from other markets.

With Argentina producing more oil than all other origins combined it does have the greatest impact with regard to global supply and demand. Just as we saw in 2014 when Argentina had problems and prices rose significantly, now supplies are fully recovered prices have softened but not back to anything like pre-2014 levels. The reason is they don’t need to. The Argentinian producers are aware of the difficulties in other lemon oil producing countries and the fact that prices in these areas are actually increasing means that Argentinian producers are in a stronger position to optimise their profits this year and make up for the previous difficult times.

For 2015/2016, fresh lemon exports are projected to increase significantly to 280,000 MT (a 51 percent increase from the previous year), due to the production rebound and less fruit supply in Northern Hemisphere countries.

The main markets for Argentinian exports are the EU and Russia making up for 72% and 16% of all exports respectively. This is around 180,000 MT of fresh lemons.

More good news for the international markets is the Argentine government’s decision to remove export taxes in an effort to counter the recent devaluation of the local currency. For lemon oil this means a 3.5% decrease in local taxes, which many producers are looking to pass on to their customers in order to gain a competitive edge.

It’s certainly better days for the Argentinian producers but not necessarily for all end user markets. With demand increasing both domestically and internationally for fresh fruits and oil, Argentina will no doubt fill many ‘boots’ and probably at reasonably high prices. The global net position on lemon production is estimated to be 3% down on last year.

Mandarin Oil Green Citrus reticulata Harvest: February - May

Overall production volumes have been slightly reduced this season at a time when demand levels are very high. This is particularly the case for any ‘Italian’ types of oil being produced.

Blue Cypress Oil Callitris intratropica Harvest: All Year

Supplies remain difficult as production fails to keep up with global demand, which has seen good growth over the past year. There are plans for a plant upgrade, which will increase capacity, but this isn’t expected to come online until the third quarter, leaving supplies tight until then.

Buddawood Oil Eremophila mitchellii Harvest: March - October

Regular production is generally meeting the needs of the market with only some short delays occurring should demand patterns change without warning. Production is steadily growing as the product finds its way into new applications, in particular masculine fine fragrances.

There are plans afoot to continue to increase capacities and should the market require, further investment is on hand to cater for any sudden extra demand.

Kunzea Oil Kunzea ambigua Harvest: September - January

New production of a higher viridiflorol type of oil started in late 2015 and has already found its way into new markets. With capacities much larger than the previous sources in Tasmania, end-users can add this product to their portfolio with much more confidence of a sustainable future. Furthermore, the improved economies through distillation of larger volumes and modern harvesting equipment mean more attractive pricing is becoming available encouraging interest from other areas in particular the fragrance markets.

Gone are the days of an annual market of a few hundred kilos; capacities today can be measured in tonnes should they be required.

Expect good supplies throughout 2016.

Rosalina Oil Melaleuca ericifolia Harvest: April - November

New production started in early 2016 and with it a renewed sense of sustainability. Over recent months many aromatherapy companies have been discouraged from using this wonderful oil due to inconsistencies in quality from mainland Australian suppliers, but this new production based on Flinders Island could ensure the product has a much brighter future. Although it is slightly different from previous examples, the prospect of pure oils and a consistent quality over a long-term period is already starting to encourage the market to adopt this newer quality.

Sandalwood Nut Oil Fusanus Spicatus Kernel Oil Harvest: March - November

Harvesting started before the new year and was completed late March. Stocks are plentiful and are expected to remain so throughout 2016.

Sandalwood Oil Album Santalum album Harvest: March - November

The plantation resource in Western Australia is starting to produce good quantities of oil. Press releases by one of the producers indicate that it will increase production by more than 10 fold in 2016 suggesting an additional 10 MT more of Indian sandalwood oil!

With the added introduction of a second supplier during the year there will be a little competitive tension in the market and whilst the quality of the plantation oil is not quite up to the traditional Indian standard, it does appear to be of reasonably good quality. This will give perfumers a real chance to start using the oil again after a period in the ‘cold’ due to the wild harvest Indian sandalwood not being accepted as it had a high percentage of untraceable wood.

However, prices do remain high with one producer currently asking US$4,500 per kg. That said there are unconfirmed reports that long-term deals are being done at significantly lower prices to encourage usage whilst keeping the appearance of the market price higher to satisfy investors. Another supplier is now offering oil around US$ 2,500 /kilo which is more realistic in today’s market so we expect to see prices of plantation oil stabilise closer to these levels in the near future.

Sandalwood Oil WA Santalum spicatum Harvest: March - November

New production of oil from plantation wood has started to come online bringing with it a sense of relief from those desperate to find alternative sources. This has been a long term event and the benefits should be seen long into the future.

The extra volumes are modest for the moment so the impact on price isn’t being felt as yet but this will come, as will the additional security of supply many have been waiting for.

Additionally a change to the local wood distribution supply will come online in October this year. It is expected to bring with it better access to wood for other producers who have long been forced to pay higher prices to gain access to wood supplies via different routes. This along with the new plantations stocks will see the markets open more freely to processors over the course of 2016.

Tea Tree Oil Melaleuca alternifolia Harvest: May - November

2015 marked a new record production for Australian tea tree oil but despite this there remains very little carryover stocks. Many buyers covered their requirements early so the market has been seemingly flat in recent months. That hasn’t detracted from the fact that an overall increased production of 150 MT over the course of the year has been consumed, owing to the fact that tea tree oil is becoming more and more popular.

A number of farmers are suggesting that this year’s harvest could start a little later than usual so it may be that the market will tighten a little more into the new season, which is forecast to commence early July.

You can also expect some changes to market conditions this year as we are likely to see some consolidation amongst producers within the local markets and the upcoming changes to the ISO Standards should encourage more use of pure Australian tea tree oil than other less compatible origins.

Bitter Orange Oil Citrus aurantium ssp amara Harvest: April - June

Production of both green and mature fruits have been quite good and with an earlier than usual season, new oil is already available.

Demand is expanding substantially for this material for both flavour and fragrance applications and with reduced availability from Italy and Ivory Coast demand remains firm.

Kumquat Oil Fortunella japonica Harvest: December - February

Interest continues to grow with tangible results now being seen in markets across Europe and Asia. Capacities remain at around 5 MT per annum but thoughts are in place to expand this capacity given current interest and ongoing development work at the end-user level.

Lemon Oil Citrus limon (L.) Burm. F. Harvest: May - July

The season has been quiet good for this up and coming lemon producing nation with many now happy to consider Brazilian quality as a straight alternative to Argentinian. Production is continuing to grow along with general demand.

Lime Oil CP Citrus latifolia Harvest: January - April

Domestic demand for fresh fruits has meant a reduction in this season’s first bloom limes being sent for processing. It is anticipated that the net effect is around a 15% reduction in oil processing, a trend that we may see continue throughout the year.

Although the season is all year the main harvest period lasts between December and July but heavy rains in January and February hit the production hard. That said there is some availability but supply and demand is delicately balanced.

Orange Oil CP Citrus sinensis Harvest: July - December

Markets remain very firm and volatile as we look towards the second half of 2016 although statistically supplies paint a different story.

In January and February, Brazil exported around 90 containers more orange oil than in the same two months of 2015, which continues a trend we saw in the final quarter of 2015. This would suggest supplies have increased at a time when Brazilian producers achieved a premium for their oil. Despite this, the market remains firm and on high alert, as supplies continue to be threatened by the major producers.

It is normal to see supply to the markets fall from June to August, which will be a telling time for how the market gears up for supplies in the second half of 2016. Most major buyers and end-users will be well covered for the next quarter but all indicators from source suggest a similarly difficult second half, just as we’ve seen over the past 12 months.

Average FOB prices are still under today’s market levels as seen in most parts of the world but those numbers continue to be skewed from the conclusion of old contracts. It is expected that when we see average prices from Q2 2016 exports, they will be more inline with today’s market prices.

It is understandable why processors are worried about future supplies. In a normal year around 20% of oranges go into the fresh fruit domestic market. Due to the late blossoming flowers from last year (which produce low yielding fruits unsuitable for processing), it is estimated that this year another 20% will also reach the local market for fresh consumption.

Generally the local markets for fresh fruits peak from February to April so many of these off fruits have been recently picked and sold leaving the available fruits for processing from May onwards very low. This at a time when fruit picking is at its lowest.

Officially Citrus BR closed the 2015/16 season with figures of 261 million orange boxes processed (40.8kg per box). The total of processed and non-processed fruits was calculated to be at 302.2 million boxes for which they summarised as follows:

The juice yield on fruit of 302.2 boxes per metric ton of FCOJ was the worst average ever recorded by the industry. It was 25.7% LOWER than the 240.5 boxes experienced in the 2014/2015 season. The lower juice yield is the result of the above average rainfalls caused by the El Niño during peak harvesting season. As a result, not only juice content in the fruits has significantly dropped, but average brix of fruits processed have also fallen from 12°Brix in 2014/2015 to 10.2°Brix in 2015/16 season. 

Looking ahead to the 2016/17 season the story doesn’t get any better and with it neither do the prospects of more oil availability and price reductions. A Brazilian crop estimate project (PES) looks at the total number of orange bearing trees, average productivity forecasted per bearing tree and estimated total orange production in the state of São Paulo and Minas Gerais Triangle Citrus Belt for the 2016/17 Season.

Today they’re forecasting a SHARP REDUCTION of 18.3% in the total 2016/17 crop compared to the one that just closed which will take another 60 million boxes out of the market!

This short and medium term forecast of limited fruits being available for processing will inevitably put pressure on oil supplies during the second half of the year, no doubt keeping prices firm.

Orange Terpenes (d'Limonene)

This year, shipments from origin are around 10% up on the monthly averages from 2015 but prices (based on FOB rates) are on average 45% higher!

Generally, markets seem stable although firm but it is thought that the supply pipelines from origin to end-users are fairly low as consumers continue to cover only their basic needs. This adds an element of vulnerability to the markets should supplies start to slow as they seasonally do around mid-Summer.

The story of any citrus bi-product will follow the paths of the fresh fruit, juice and oil markets before their own market dynamics play a part, but with the uncertainty surrounding those markets at the moment the future prospects of d’limonene remains delicate.

Lavender Oil Lavandula angustifolia Harvest: July

It is still too early to see how this year’s crop will perform but generally the plants came through a mild winter unscathed. That said Spring has been very wet but whether this has any lasting impact remains to be seen. June is a critical time for lavender plantations as it needs enough sun to blossom. It will be hoped that the clouds break and the sun shines soon, otherwise those good plans for additional oil this year could soon seem more like a dream.

Depending on the hours of sunshine and temperatures at that time, yields can be significantly increased or decreased to the extent that if all goes well we can expect perhaps 250 MT this year but if the conditions that prevailed in 2014 occur again, the same plantations could yield us as little, or less than 160 MT.

With additional plantations in recent years we understand there to be around 4,000 hectares of lavender fields in Bulgaria.

Final calculations from 2015’s crop suggest Bulgaria produced and exported around 200 MT of oil, which was significantly up on the previous year by around 60 MT. Today there is very little oil available in the market and nothing at origin, suggesting the markets easily consumed these increased volumes.

Rose Oil Rosa damascena Harvest: May - June

Relentless rains are stalling and damaging this year’s rose collections as harvesting was hoped to have started already. Producers are reluctant to commit to any details and pricing at this time.

Cassia Oil Cinnamomum cassia Harvest: May - July, October - December

This year’s crop period was very short. A delayed start was concluded with an early finish with around 30% less oil produced than from the same period last year. This continues a downward trend in recent years for cassia as last year’s production was 50 MT less than 2014 at levels of 400 MT.

Producers have cited increased costs of around 20%, which they are trying to compensate at the other end with the buyers but in a weak market that is proving difficult to achieve. As such there will come a time in the not too distant future when stocks are depleted and their higher target prices will become more obtainable. Our advice would be to cover now at reasonable prices rather than risk the markets firming at a later date.

Citronella Oil Cymbopogon winterianus Harvest: June - December

The early season has not been great as cold weather destroyed many crops over the winter period.  Thankfully after last year’s bumper crop, stocks remain reasonable but it is expected that prices may increase over the coming weeks or until the summer season begins from late July.

Eucalyptus Oil Eucalyptus globulus Harvest: July - October

The market remains delicately balanced, which is a pattern we are starting to get used to for this product. Over the past 12 months, we have seen supply and demand keep fairly in line with each other with the only changes to this being short lived. This comes either when demand spikes or during the seasonal months when harvesting and production fall, as we are seeing now.

The trouble is that this time the effects could be felt for longer as too many leaves have fallen due to inclement weather, meaning there is likely to be no summer harvest and possibly a very small harvest in December. This will mount pressure on a delicate situation so we expect prices to continue to firm.

Garlic Oil Allium sativum L. Harvest: April - May

Depending on whom you speak to there has been either zero production or very little production for over 12 months. This has put an immense pressure on supplies and with it market prices. Today prices are higher than they have ever been with no real positive changes foreseeable on the horizon.

The season started in May but it seems production will only be made against firm orders, which will no doubt leave us with no carryover after the short season. Analysts say that based on the real price for garlic in the local market the oil price would have to be over $400 /kilo to be viable.

Geranium Oil Pelargonium graveolens Harvest: May - September

The smaller production in 2015 managed to keep prices firm, which is a trend many expect to see continue despite the new season having just started. Competition amongst collectors, coupled with higher labour and production costs, has meant that early calculations of new season oil actually see prices increase!

The season will continue over the next 4-5 months so maybe there is room for things to improve; however, at this stage this scenario seems unlikely.

Ginger Oil Zingiber officinale Harvest: January - April

The new season has certainly helped to ease supplies and prices after we’d seen prices creep up towards the end of last year. Today there are some good offers available so our recommendation would be to buy now for the rest of 2016.

Lavender Oil Lavandula angustifolia Harvest: July - August

In 2015 the Chinese had a difficult year competing on the global lavender markets, not helped by strong production from Bulgaria and France. Even today you are able to find some stocks from last year’s production with many producers happy to cut their losses and look towards a better 2016. Whether they get one will very much depend not just on their own crop conditions but the conditions of other producing areas. If everyone has a good year it is questionable as to how much the Chinese can compete but that hasn’t deterred their interest for now so let’s see how the next few months play out. Mother Nature can work in mysterious ways!

Natural Citral ex Litsea Litsea cubeba Harvest: July - October

We’re off-season and as supplies diminish, prices are rising slowly. This could be a trend until the new season, which begins late August so ensure you have cover until Q4.

Helichrysum Oil Helichrysum angustifolium Harvest: August - September

Today there are little supplies to talk about in the market with the next season not starting until late June. This is the only season planned this year and will last around 8 weeks, until mid-August. As with 2015, there will be no spring season as the government continues to restrict harvesting.

Last year we saw a 40% reduction on the previous year’s production. We expect similar levels this year to those of last.

Basil Oil Linalool Ocimum basilicum L Harvest: June - September

Prices remain firm with limited oil to cover until the next crop starting in July. Unfortunately good quality material remains an issue with many having to accept a higher level of methyl chavicol in order not to be forced to pay higher prices.

Chamomile Blue Oil Matricaria chamomilla Harvest: March - May

Production started late March, which is a little earlier than usual and ended early May. This early start was in part due to a high demand from the market although there was some worry that the early start may affect overall yields. Despite another small crop there appears to be reasonable stocks and with the local currency devaluation prices have actually fallen.

Coriander Herb Oil Coriandrum sativum L. Harvest: January - February, June - July

Production started mid-April and finished late May but as usual most production is made to order. Prices have softened but remain higher than prices from other origins, where we are still finding some carry over stocks from last year, which may affect demand this season for the Egyptian oil.

Cumin Seed Oil Cuminum cyminum L. Harvest: May - June

The crop started in May and continues but has so far yielded some poor results. As a result, the price for seeds has increased and with that oil prices have also started to rise and many are forecasting this trend to continue. As we mentioned in April the sooner you cover the better price you’ll pay.

Geranium Oil Pelargonium graveolens Harvest: June - July

Difficult to summarise as prices have been low along with demand for some time. There doesn’t appear to be much justification for the weak markets and it is hoped that demand will return this year. This could coincide with an expected smaller cultivation this year which could help prices to recover (good if you’re a producer!) but to what extent it is difficult to say.

There are always some external dynamics to consider with this oil and origin and already some farmers and speculators are using the idea of a poor crop to push prices up. Locally prices have started to rise but with the weak local currency that increase isn’t reflected in the export pricing…yet! It may be worth taking your cover now before the speculation gets out of control!

Jasmine Absolute Jasminum grandiflorum L. Harvest: June - November

Markets have softened a little since the turn of the year with small lots still available from last year’s crop. The new season will start around early June and is expected to be normal.

Parsley Leaf Oil Petroselinum crispum Harvest: April - May

No significant changes since our last report with supplies remaining limited as we’re off-season and with little oil being produced this year due to overall weak demand.

Clary Sage Oil Salvia sclarea Harvest: June - July

After last year’s proposed new volumes didn’t arrive everyone is hopeful that 2016 will be different. There is a significant amount of new plantations that ‘should’ yield some results this year with the hope France can increase output by a few tons. Last year’s volume is estimated to be around 16 MT with every drop selling quickly at record high prices. The new plantations could add 5-8 MT more oil this year but as always Mother Nature will have the final say.

Cypress Oil Cupressus sempervirens L. Harvest: All Year

There are sufficient stocks at origin to satisfy demand giving us a stable market situation.

Lavandin Abrialis Lavandula hybrida var. abrialis Harvest: July - August

Reflecting on recent years we can see that there is little future for this variety as year-on-year output declines. Last year’s production was down a further 15% on 2014. It seems there are still a number of end users who insist on this variety but in reality they are less likely each year to be buying what they think they are buying with volumes of real abrialis almost non-existent. Today there are no stocks at origin.

Lavandin Grosso Lavandula hybrida var. grosso Harvest: July - August

Despite a strong 2015 production (although without the growth we originally anticipated), demand has remained firm and all stocks at origin are now sold. 2015 production was up around 5% on previous years but it looks like that wasn’t enough to fulfil the overall demand.

Today, buyers are asking for material to tie them over until the new crop but are finding very little available. Instead many are turning to other sources, such as Spain, and finding they’re having to pay much higher prices.

It is too early to predict this season’s outcome but so long as there is no major drought during spring and no overly hot pre-harvest period all should be set for a similar output to that of last year.

Lavandin Super Lavandula hybrida var. super Harvest: July - August

Recent years have seen this variety decline and with it prices increase and it is unlikely this trend will be any different during 2016. That said there is some good news, as recent new plantations will hopefully add new oil into the supply chain after the 2017 crops. Today there is no material at origin and with the season not starting until July (with oil available late August) expect the market to remain very firm.

Lavender Maillette Oil Lavandula angustifolia var. maillette Harvest: July

Stocks at origin are now depleted after a complete sell out year for French lavender. Production last year was average even if some other lavender types performed better than expected it certainly wasn’t the case for Maillette. Whilst other lavenders showed modest growth of around 4% on average Maillette suffered. As a result, prices finished on average higher than in 2014 as demand for this quality is always high.

As with all lavenders the flowering period before the harvest will determine what yields we can expect. This is always a balancing act by the farmers who have to be ready to move quickly once the right time arrives.

Amyris Oil Amyris balsamifera Harvest: All Year

Production is now focused on the Dominican Republic and of late some local restrictions have been in place to prevent the movement of raw material to the factories. This is for deadwood as live wood cannot be harvested as it’s under a government protection order. Thankfully we are hearing that these restrictions have been lifted which in time will provide some relief. That said the market is starved of supply and it will take some time before there is a better balance in the market until then prices will remain high.

Historically it grew freely in Haiti but was depleted over time because the branches burned well due to their density and dryness making it a good energy source for local households.  It is now harvested in the Dominican Republic and is a protected species therefore the industry is reliant on the availability of deadwood.

Basil Oil Holy Ocimum sanctum Harvest: November - February

The new season has concluded with less production than in 2015 due to the declining prices and demand for anethole. Today prices are stable but stocks are low so it could be that during the year we see some price increases.

Black Pepper Oil Piper nigrum L. Harvest: December - February

India’s pepper cultivation is reported to be around 195,000 Ha, making it one of the largest in the world, although Vietnam remains the largest exporter of the spice.

Over recent weeks the local markets have seen an increase in prices for black pepper spice with global pepper prices (spice not oil) at an all time high. A recent report into the industry forecasts a 3.2% growth in the pepper markets over the next 4-5 years. This is based on consumer trends and supported by many of the world’s largest food producers.

This growth trend is supported by the IPC (International Pepper Community) who recent assessed the spice markets in saying; ‘ There is no decline in supply but prices are in increasing trend. Recent investigations reveal that the change of food habits, increase income in new markets and deviating from artificial flavours have created higher demand for natural food like spices. Though no quantified strong evidences available, it is likely to continue the present prices for pepper with no decline for future.’

Today the oil markets remain stable but will be influenced by the conditions of the spice markets. Should they continue to grow and prices rise we may see some increases in oil prices which have been in more a buyer’s market condition in recent months.  

Cornmint Oil Mentha arvensis Harvest: May - July

The 2015 crop saw a 30% reduction on the previous year’s output, most of which was planned due to the declining market demand. Markets remain flat with some stocks still available. Crude Mentha Arvensis prices are very low at the moment as producers look to turn over stocks before the new season starting in June.

Davana Oil Artemisia Pallens Harvest: February - April

The new season started late and ended soon after with some highly disappointing results, which immediately resulted in escalating prices. What’s more the davanone contents are very low in comparison to usual standards with the best available being in the range of 40-44%. The next crop isn’t until February 2017 so this one isn’t going to get any better soon.

Lemongrass Oil Cymbopogon citratus Harvest: July - November

The markets have started to rebalance and as a result prices are now more stable. In 2015 production was down around 30% and the availability of good quality oil became difficult. Whilst we’re still not seeing good continuity it is thought that supplies are catching up with demand perhaps owing to a weakened market in recent months. Once we get to the summer harvesting period it is hoped the markets will improve further.

Lime Oil Distilled (Key) Citrus aurantifolia Harvest: September - December

Major projects continue to progress with a view to standardising the local fresh fruit market and increasing the capacity to receive more limes for processing. This will take time but it’s likely to offer us more options for some small increased capacity during 2016.

Indian lime is a particularly good quality, similar to that of Mexican Key Lime but given current costs can be slightly more expensive. That said it is always good to invest in new origins and this one is no different. Better economies will come so it would be good to have this quality already approved and purchased.

Palmarosa Oil Cymbopogon martini Harvest: January - June

A lower output this season due to heavy rains has seen local oil stocks reduce, which has helped move prices back to a more attractive level for farmers to cultivate next year. Prices had fallen until the start of the year on the back of weak demand and over supply. Here we see just how things can turn on their head in a relatively short period of time.

Peppermint Oil Mentha piperita Harvest: April - July

There is a general sense of an improving situation amongst the Indian producers. After a low yielding 2015 and a weaker market new enquiries ahead of this season 1^st cut which started in May has given renewed optimism. It is understood there was around 20-25% additional planting earlier this year which is hoped will lead to a healthy 1^st cut.

Today stocks are almost fully depleted with very little carryover from 2015. Today’s prices are not indicative of what may come next as we await the new season and the markets requirements.

Spearmint Oil Mentha spicata Harvest: July - August

Last year we saw a 35% reduction in plantations compared with 2014 to try and rebalance the supply in the markets due to weak demands brought about by the introduction of synthetic alternatives. This year it is likely to reduce another 25% as more and more farmers are discouraged by market prices from investing in production. It is a buyers market!

Cajeput Oil Melaleuca cajuputi Harvest: All Year

Finally fresh, uncontaminated lots of this oil have started to come through after months, even years, of ongoing problems. There is still some work to do to ensure it’s longer-term sustainability but for now it is pleasing to see some good quality oil. We hope that during the course of 2016 the situation will continue to improve further.

Cananga Oil Cananga odorata Harvest: June - August

The market is now pure speculation as there is no fresh oil available and none for the foreseeable future. As such today’s prices are at an all time high and will rise based on who wants what and when. We do not expect to see fresh supplies soon and would recommend you cover any short term needs quickly if you can.

Citronella Oil Cymbopogon winterianus Harvest: October - February

There was almost a 20% growth in production last year as Indonesia continues to express itself in the global market. Whilst still shy of the 2,000MT China produced in 2015, prices for Indonesia origin remain more competitive and more and more end users are switching qualities. Many still see the two origins as interchangeable but for those who don’t there are signs of large users accommodating the small differences in quality.

Supplies are continuing to increase from Sumatra with local prices remaining stable. The only difference in pricing month to month is based on the currency exchange rates but in large this only amounts to +/- 5% when the price advantage Indonesia has over China is closer to 10-15% with China expecting price increases later in 2016.

Export prices are further supported with a weakening Indonesian Rupiah.

Clove Oil Eugenia caryophyllata Harvest: May - September

There remains a reasonable balance in the markets despite supplies of clove leaf slowing in recent weeks. Collections are traditionally lower at this time of year with the next main collection period coming online in August. We may see some small price decreases especially with the weakening local currency. For now, markets remain stable.

Clove Terpenes Eugenia caryophyllate Harvest: May - September

Supplies are plentiful with prices being at record lows. Beta caryophellene is also available in good volumes.


Ginger Oil Fresh Zingiber officinale Harvest: January - May

There is a lot of interest in this product at the moment as the market continues to assess the viability of this quality as a long term option. It has been seen to be accepted in a number of new and interesting applications. Prices remain steady however supplies are not as consistent as they could be. Hopefully more controls coming from within the supply chain will improve this over the next months.

Mace Oil Myristica fragrans Harvest: March - April, October - November

Despite more apparent challenges within the nutmeg supply the availability of mace for oil production is stable, likely due to the smaller oil market. As a newer product it is gaining momentum and qualities are consistent. Expect prices to remain at today’s levels for the short term unless the nutmeg situation gets out of control.

Massoia Bark Oil Cryptocaria massoia Harvest: September - May

Overall supplies in 2015 improved but this market sector lacks controls and continuity. Supplies are ad hoc and qualities need to be re-worked constantly. Efforts are in place to improve this long term but it will take time to find to reassurances we all like to have when dealing with these premium natural ingredients. Today prices remain firm but stable.

Nutmeg Oil Myristica fragrans Houtt. Harvest: All Year

Supplies remain slow from all regions and with stocks amongst major traders diminishing and large multinationals jumping in to secure supplies, the overall situation remains one of concern.

To understand the reasoning behind this we need to backtrack 18 months to recall the previous market conditions and then what happened during 2015 to prices after the introduction of new plantation material.

Back in 2014 prices of nutmeg where averaging around $120 /kilo – too high and damaging for any new development work. Last year the introduction of new plantations significantly shifted the dynamics of the market with the oversupply of raw materials. This pushed prices down to unsustainable levels with many farmers abandoning their plantations.

At these low price levels collections slowed down and in time stocks have dried up. Today we find that supply cannot keep up with demand and the obvious patterns continue. Finding a balance seems to be a big problem which is always the case when the markets are unregulated with little to no cohesion at origin when it comes to long-term perspectives.

Can prices continue to climb? Well the feeling locally is yes. Our advice – cover as far as you can as today’s prices, despite feeling high compared to several months ago, they are likely to remain the best prices available for some time.

Patchouli Oil Pogostemon cablin Harvest: All Year

On the surface the markets remain fairly stable with only small ups and downs in recent month largely due to exchange rate movements rather than raw material costs and supply. That said there is always an ongoing challenge within the local patchouli communities to ensure this stability can continue. Each month following droughts or floods in one area there is a need to balance supplies from other areas and so on. As such more and more effort is required to keep a consistent export quality with only those with the technologies able to keep on top of this.

This is one reason why Van Aroma has growth to be the world’s largest exporter as their state-of-the–art technologies and quality controls have allowed it to develop the raw material market in newer growing areas.

These technologies combined with the constant reinforcement of good farming practices have helped ensure supplies remain stable and therefore prices.

Over recent weeks supplies from Sulawesi have been low due to recent floods but good stocks with producers has meant the market hasn’t felt this potential ripple in supply. Supplies from Sumatra are stable but there is nothing coming from Java at present. Fresh production should start early June which will be needed to add some safety stocks back into the supply chain.

We always advise clients that August is known to be a good time to buy and we’d say anytime between now and then will make a safe and good purchase. With the extra collections and the weakening local currency the influencing factors will be on the buyer’s side over the coming weeks, so book now, you can’t go wrong.

Vetiver Oil Vetiveria zizanioides Harvest: January - July

The situation simply does not improve with supplies continuing to remain low and market demand increasing by the week. It has been difficult for producers to accommodate even regular clients needs with many new and expectant clients left disappointed.

Earlier in the year we anticipated prices would increase another 15-20% before Q2 and now we’re in Q2 we can say the same for the next quarter if not by more. There are simple supply and demand dynamics involved here at every step of the supply chain and with each step the prices keep getting higher and higher with no real changes expected in the short-term.

USD 300.00 /kilo +

Lemon Oil Citrus limon (L.) Burm. F. Harvest: November - January, April - July

There will be some challenging times ahead for the Italian lemon producers after the winter season yielded some poor results. Whilst the number of fruits looked good, dry weather back in November has significantly reduced the yields.

Last year’s Italian fresh lemon production was down 2% on the previous year, with imports from Spain (55%) and Argentina (21%) increasing to support the domestic demand. Italy’s processing capacities were hit hard in 2014 with 16% fewer lemons processed than the previous year.

The impact of another poor season has pushed up prices for fresh fruits so raw material costs to processors have significantly increased. To put into perspective Spanish lemons are twice the price of Argentinian lemons and Italian lemons are 3 times that of Argentina’s!

It is almost certain that Italy will import more lemons this year than last year to compensate and indeed they may become net buyers of oil from other regions. This is another reason why globally the price of lemon oil is likely to remain firm.

Mandarin Oil Green Citrus reticulata Harvest: February - May

No significant change to that last reported, namely prices remain firm amidst a shortage of supply and a strong demand.

The 2015 crop was 15% less than that 2014, continuing the decrease we’ve seen in recent years. This is due to farmers turning their attention to other trees, as the cost of mandarin harvesting and cultivating is too high. Of the 17,000 MT crop estimate, around 10,000 MT will go for processing.

Orange Oil Blood Citrus sinensis Harvest: December - February

Following a good season and low demands from the fresh fruit markets there is good availability of fruits for processing. The only downside is the intensity of colour for blood orange juice, which is not as good as in the past due to warmer climates in January and February. Usually colder nights during the winter months help pigment the oranges to give that intense colour.

Generally prices are stable. However there is a premium charge for good quality material due to increased global demand.

Lime Oil Distilled (Key) Citrus aurantifolia Harvest: May - August

Mexican producers are keen to highlight that despite Mexico being hit by the current El Niño event (which could last another few months) the effects on the lime crops are seemingly negligent. Whether that opinion changes when the June harvest arrives is still subject to a few variables, which can occur in the weeks before harvest begins.

Generally the market and prices remain stable at a little under last year although it is understood that a number of large buyers are yet to cover all their 2016 requirements, which could quickly out a squeeze on supply. If this should happen we could see prices increase later in the year. Another factor is the growing domestic and international demand for fresh fruits, which is adding some additional pressures to the number of available fruits for processing.

Artemisia Taurica Artemisia taurica Harvest: July - September

It is too early to consider how the 2016 crop will perform as this plant isn’t harvested until September/October although heavy and persistent spring rains could ensure there is more material to harvest. There is also the added complication of where this plant grows as it is cultivated in the South and South East of Ukraine, where lasting conflict remains and where accessing the territory and crossing borders continues to be over complicated.

Today there is limited material on the market, which in turn is putting some pressure on prices.

Clary Sage Oil Salvia sclarea L. Harvest: July - August

The headline statement for clary sage is still that it is in high demand with prices remaining firm. Russian quality has emerged as the preference for many end users as it has become more regularly available than that from other origins, despite the primary reason for its cultivation being for the production of clary sage concrete and not oil. However, early signs for 2016 aren’t good with an assessment after the winter suggesting there could be as much as 30-40% fewer plants this year than last! That said we might see a better yield from a smaller area, which could offset some of the forecasted losses.

As with many floral oils the key to a good harvest is determining when to harvest and what the conditions are at the time of harvest. This will only be known come July when the next harvest is upon us. Today the markets are limited with the number of options available for supply small since only a few stockists are carrying material. As such prices remain firm.

Coriander Herb Oil Coriandrum sativum L. Harvest: May - June

The condition of the plants looks to be healthy for this time of the year. So it is expected that there will be a good crop, although it is thought that the acreage of plants around Russia is less than in previous years so the overall yields could be smaller.

Harvest for herb oil will start mid June and as always this is generally a made to order product. Any plants not harvested will go on to seed and will be available at a later time to be harvested for seed oil. There is a little carry over from last year but today the markets remain quiet. Prices are expected to remain around the same levels into the new season.

Coriander Seed Oil Corriandrum sativum L. Harvest: July - August

As with coriander herb the condition of the plants look to be healthy for this time of the year so it is expected there would be a good crop, although it is thought that the acreage of plants around Russia is less than in previous years so the overall yields could be smaller.

Harvesting for seed oil begins in July/August with the first shipments made in September/October. After a healthy crop in 2015 and a fall in market prices the market has re-balanced at stable levels. There was a lot of competition from producers last year, which is unlikely to prevail to the same extent this year, which should bring more stable pricing from origin. There appears to be reasonable stocks still available both with traders and at origin which should keep prices stable until the new crop. It is expected when all factors are considered that prices into the new season should remain similar, if not a little less than today’s levels.

Lavender Oil Lavandula angustifolia Harvest: July - August

The few plantations still viable in Russia seem to have made it through the winter period well. Despite this, we are not expecting big volumes from the area as over recent years plantations areas have been reduced due to market competition and year-on-year weather conditions resulting in poor crops. The recent heavy spring rains could improve yields but this isn’t going to have a great effect on the overall output.

Rosemary Oil Rosmarinus officinalis Harvest: All Year

Difficulties continue with supply with little or no oil available at origin. The same can be said for other North African producing countries like Tunisia.

The season started in May although the prospects don’t create a great deal of confidence for the markets to improve in the short term as demand for the dry leaf also remains high.

Manuka Oil Leptospermum scoparium Harvest: April - October

Supplies continue to increase catering to the markets growing enthusiasm for this special oil. Have you tried it yet or even seen Manuka Honey in your local health food store or supermarket? 

Click on the product name above to refresh your memory as to why you should give it a go!

Neroli Oil Citrus aurantium Harvest: April - May

The new season started late April and ended soon after with all stocks immediately sold. Overall the flowers were 35% lower than last year with most of the raw materials used to produce concrete.

Cabreuva Oil Myrocarpus frondosus Harvest: All Year

Supplies continue to be short but against a slow down in sales prices have weakened in recent months. It is unlikely that supplies will improve in the short term so future pricing will depend on market demand over the coming months.

Guaiacwood Oil Bulnesia Sarmientoi Harvest: All Year

Production continues to improve with good stocks now available at origin. This should remain in place for the rest of 2016.


Petitgrain Oil Citrus aurantium ssp. Harvest: All Year

There has been an ongoing situation since early 2015 with the supply of petitgrain oil. Affected by the current El Niño event, supplies have fallen significantly below market demand and as such prices have increased almost month on month for the past year. It is not expected that the situation will improve soon so we can expect this shortage in supply to continue. The advice remains as always – buy what you can and plan as far ahead as you can just to avoid any disappointment from not obtaining product.

Vetiver Oil Vetiveria zizanioides Harvest: February - May

Supplies are simply not available as the availability of raw materials and basic commodities for processing are short. Last season (ending October 2015) there was no carry over stocks and today there is a backlog of orders to fulfil. In February limited production started again but the key word here is ‘limited’. It is likely to take some months before supplies catch up with the demand so expect prices to increase over the next quarter. 

Fir Needle Oil Abies sibirica Ledeb. Harvest: April - September

The market is still faced with the same situation as forestry restrictions mean there is a significant reduction in harvesting with processing plants based in Russia reported to be running at less than 50% capacity.

Material from other Baltic states is supplementing supply but this quality is slightly different, however, under the circumstances very much approved by most.

Prices remain firm and are likely to remain so in the short-term despite the spring season usually bringing about fresh supplies. Unfortunately it is understood that the new season hasn’t yet started (beginning of June) and forward offers from source have suggested price increases not decreases lie ahead.

Lemon Oil Citrus limon (L.) Burm. F. Harvest: July - September

There are few offers from South Africa at the moment even though the new season began in May. Drought conditions and high temperatures during summer severely affected the size of the fruits reducing overall yields. Additionally, some areas were hit by hail recently, which is thought to have damaged some fruit.

It is estimated that there will be a 30% reduction in the amount of fruits available for processing which based on the usual 60,000 MT would suggest no more than 42,000 MT of fruits will make it to the factories. Previous estimates suggested that figure would be closer to 20% so the situation appears to be worse than first thought.

Orange Oil CP Citrus sinensis Harvest: June - September

The USDA says South Africa’s fresh orange production forecast is virtually unchanged at 1.7 million tons. Exports are expected to be down 50,000 tons but still account for over 25 percent of global trade. The European Union and Russia remain its largest markets.

Most of South Africa’s fresh oranges are either consumed domestically or exported to Europe with around 400 MT of oil being produced each year. There are no numbers yet to quantify recent production but it is expected to be down on previous years as much as 35% due to below average rainfalls and higher summer temperatures. Any offers today are at relatively high prices compared to previous years from South Africa but typical of today’s global markets.

Tagette Oil Tagetes erecta Harvest: June - August

No changes of late with prices stable and with some healthy supplies remaining at origin despite being in the closed season. The next crop will take place mid-June 2016 and it’s expected that prices will remain at today’s levels post crop.


Tea Tree Oil Melaleuca alternifolia Harvest: October - January

There have been suggestions that in 2016 South Africa will produce more tea tree oil than in previous years but any small growth will be modest in comparison to the dominance of Australia. Much of South Africa’s production is wild harvested and organic and as such has a different place in the market. That said, it has its place and will no doubt continue to be a viable option for those end users looking for a different consumer story.

This year’s harvest should start early July.

Lavandin Grosso Lavandula hybrida Harvest: July - August

After a disappointing 2015 few stocks remain at origin and those that do come at premium prices. That said, with French stocks depleted and with limited options available it could be that the Spanish are able to sell at a premium over the next few months.

Lavender Oil Spike Lavendula latifolia Harvest: August - September

Limited stocks remain available at origin and at premium prices. The past crop was more than disappointing and although a better crop is expected when harvesting begins in August there is a lot of pipe-filling to achieve before the market becomes more settled.

Lemon Oil Citrus limon (L.) Burm. F. Harvest: November - July

No matter which set of statistics you read none of them create a good picture. As the season comes to a close further analysis can be made to the extent of how poor the fruit crops have been and more significantly how little went to be processed with only 7% of fruits processed compared to 27% last year.

Quoting recent headlines from Agra-net, Spanish lemon production shrank by 35%, which has led to a reduction of 75% in the volume of fruit sent to the industry since the beginning of the season to December 2015. AILIMPO’s lemon harvest forecast for the 2015/16 season estimates an output of 710,000 MT, nearly 35% less than in the previous campaign.

This is 60,000 MT less than we anticipated at the beginning of the year and with fresh fruit export demands calculated to be around 695,000 MT (and increasing) you can see there is little chance of any fruits going to the processing markets or Spain fulfilling their export demand.  The result is processors have had to pay a premium for the fruits, which has again pushed up their production costs and ultimately their selling price. Based on these figures, you can see how such a scenario puts severe pressure on the market:

Forecast *
Hypothetical ^

Fresh fruit demand continues to put pressure on local prices and oil processors costs as the Spanish producers struggle to keep ahead of the game when it comes to oil sales.

Having recently dominated supply gaps left by Argentina the roles have been reversed over recent months after Argentina came out of the dark and the Spanish faced increasing prices. Today the cost of fresh Spanish lemons is double that of Argentinian lemons giving local oil producers an immediate disadvantage. That said, we’re not comparing apples with apples (or lemons with lemons!) as the qualities are different for many of the end user markets and within Europe the Spanish have a competitive edge over the Italians, who have their own problems.

Rosemary Oil Rosmarinus officinalis Harvest: February - June

There is no let up in the supply issues which have prevailed for some time now. Small batches are irregularly available and when they do the price is as much as someone is prepared to pay.

Thyme Oil Red Thymus vulgaris Harvest: June - August

This one has been a tale of one problem after another in recent years and as this year’s crop begins (late May / early June) the market is waiting with great anticipation. Prices have been high recently with little or no oil availability for some time. To what extent the prices soften post harvest remains to be seen, as producers are still reluctant to offer firm pricing until the whole harvest is complete.

Cinnamon Bark Oil Cinnamomum zeylanicum Harvest: May - December

Reasonable supplies remain from last season’s crop with the next harvest coming online from June 2016 with the outlook for this year’s crop stable.

Cinnamon Leaf Oil Cinnamomum zeylanicum Harvest: March - August

New production started in May with limited supplies remaining at origin before this time. Demand remains high, as are prices, which will remain strong until new oil comes online in July.

Grapefruit Oil Citrus paradisi Harvest: December - April

We’ve had some small improvements over recent months with the USDA again in May extending their forecast by 150,000 boxes on top of the 200,000 added in April. This brings the overall forecast up to 10.85 million boxes.

Sadly, that’s where the good news ends and the reality sinks in. As the 2015/16 season comes to an end we will be around 16% down on last year’s poor crop, the lowest since the 1931/2 season!!

The USDA Row Count survey suggested that on 10^th May most harvesting was complete so we are now unlikely to see any additional fruits go for processing.

This implies that today’s dire oil situation is about to get worse with no fresh supplies expected until later in the year.

There is some irony in the fact that global fresh grapefruit production is thought to be up 300,000 MT given the large increase in cultivated areas in China, however, these are primarily for the growing fresh fruit markets. Hard to believe given the problems in the oil markets! Difficult times ahead!!

Lemon Oil Citrus limon (L.) Burm. F. Harvest: May - July

Generally the market is stable with only small variances in recent forecasts over those made early 2016. Overall fruit harvesting has been similar to the previous year at 900,000 MT.

Lemon acreage increased this year by 1,000 acres to 56,300 acres and processed fruit increased to 260,000 MT. As with many countries the United States is now importing more lemons than ever before, including recently from Argentina. With a growing domestic fruit market and a relatively static local production this is a trend that is likely to continue.

The latest USDA figures for the 2015 – 2016 season shows the California lemon forecast to be 42.0 million boxes, up 5 percent from the January forecast and up 2 percent from last season’s final production. In California the desert harvest is now complete.

Orange Oil Citrus sinensis Harvest: February - May

You need to dig through the statistics to find something positive here as the impact of citrus greening takes its toll.

Although slightly up on April’s figures the overall situation suggests the Florida output to be 81.1 million boxes. This is up 7% on last month mainly due to an improved estimate for Valencia oranges (up 5 million to 45 million) but still represents a 16% reduction on 2014/15.

To quantify this the total orange harvest is the lowest since 1963/64 season and for the Valencia type the lowest since the big freeze of 1989/90.

Based on figures gathered early June, around 90% of the total fruits have been harvested.

The net effect of these figures can be felt in the oil markets, compounded by the ongoing global supply issues mainly originating from Brazil.

The oil markets are hurting but the Florida citrus markets are hurting more with the future looking rather worrying.

A recent survey by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences on the impact of citrus greening concluded as much as 90 percent of their acreage and 80 percent of their trees are infected by the deadly greening disease, which is making a huge dent in the state’s $10.7 billion citrus industry. The survey covered around 200 growers who also stated that the overall negative net effects on yields are around 41%.

Basil Oil Methyl Chavicol Ocimum basilicum L Harvest: August - September

The market has been firming in recent months as supplies dwindle in the market. Following a disappointing 2014 crop after heavy rains disrupted harvesting it was expected that prices would firm throughout the off season which is exactly what is happening.