1. Weekly News

Peru

Peru's Apr-25 Onion Exports Surge 77% YoY Driven by Strong Demand from Colombia and Bolivia

In Apr-25, Peru exported 5,976 metric tons (mt) of fresh onions valued at USD 1.6 million, marking a 77% year-on-year (YoY) increase in volume and an 88% YoY rise in value. The average export price slightly increased by 6.1% YoY to USD 0.26 per kilogram (kg). Colombia remained the largest market, receiving 3,570 mt (67% of total exports) with a 42% volume and 76% value growth, and a 24% price increase to USD 0.29/kg. Bolivia was the second-largest destination, importing 1,492 mt (22% share), with shipments rising sharply due to adverse weather affecting local supply, despite a 63% drop in average price to USD 0.23/kg. The United States (US) accounted for 6% of exports, with 224 mt shipped, showing volume and value growth but an 11% price decline to USD 0.39/kg. Most exports, accounting for 93%, were transported by land.

South Korea

South Korea Expands Measures to Stabilize Onion Market Following Rising Output and Falling Prices

South Korea's Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) has announced expanded market stabilization measures in response to falling onion prices driven by increased production and shipment volumes. Early-maturing onion output rose 9.2% YoY, while total production is expected to reach 1.09 million metric tons (mmt), up 3.2% from 2024. By late May-25, wholesale prices had declined 46% YoY to USD 0.46/kg (KRW 619/kg). The government will purchase and stockpile 30,000 mt, introduce designated shipping points, and collaborate with stakeholders to limit supply and improve quality control. Consumption support measures include subsidies for retail discounts and engagement with major buyers to encourage domestic onion use.

Tajikistan

Tajikistan Launches Transport Initiative to Boost Early Onion Exports Following Strong Harvest in Khatlon

The Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Tajikistan (MoT RT)has launched a support initiative to boost exports of early onions, with the harvest of the Jaihun variety nearing completion in Khatlon Panj district. Of the 14,054 hectares (ha) planted across the region, total production is projected to exceed 473,000 mt. To support exports to neighboring markets, including Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, the Tajik Railway has positioned 20 empty wagons at key stations and activated a logistics center in Levakant to streamline shipments. Transport discounts of up to 80% and 60% are being offered to facilitate cross-border trade. By May 21, 2025, 240 mt had already been shipped by rail.

Ukraine

Ukrainian Onion Prices Drop 12% WoW in W22 Amid Quality Issues and Weak Demand

Despite seasonal stock depletion, Ukrainian onion producers have been forced to lower prices due to declining quality and reduced buyer interest. As of W22, wholesale prices range from USD 0.39 to 0.63/kg (UAH 16 to 26/kg), down 12% week-on-week (WoW). The price drop is attributed to stricter quality demands and a surplus of substandard onions, as many producers delayed sales in hopes of higher returns. Prices average 12% below 2024 levels, with market sentiment remaining pessimistic due to ongoing quality deterioration and subdued demand.

2. Weekly Pricing

Weekly Onion Pricing Important Exporters (USD/kg)

Yearly Change in Onion Pricing Important Exporters (W22 2024 to W22 2025) 

India

In W22, India’s wholesale onion prices rose by 23.08% WoW, reaching USD 0.16/kg. This sharp increase is directly linked to unseasonal pre-monsoon showers that damaged onion crops across Maharashtra, the country's key production hub. In regions like Nashik, farmers report up to 60% of crop losses due to delayed harvesting, while high humidity has caused 20 to 25% spoilage of stored onions. Wholesale market prices currently range from USD 17.48 to 20.97 per quintal (INR 1,500 to 1,800/quintal), with projections indicating a potential surge beyond USD 34.95/quintal (INR 3,000/quintal) if adverse weather continues to disrupt supply. Traders have begun sourcing directly from farms, signaling tightening market conditions.

Egypt

In W22, Egypt's wholesale onion prices held steady at USD 0.12/kg, showing no change WoW or YoY. This price stability is primarily attributed to increased harvest volumes during the peak season, which boosted domestic supply and market availability. Favorable weather conditions in key producing regions such as Beheira and Menoufia have supported strong yields, mitigating earlier supply concerns.

Additionally, subdued export demand and rising competition from regional suppliers have limited external market opportunities, exerting downward pressure on prices. If these trends persist, domestic prices are likely to remain stable or potentially soften further in the short term. However, any resurgence in export demand or adverse weather conditions could shift the balance, leading to upward price adjustments later in the season.

Spain

In W22, Spain's wholesale onion prices declined by 3.08% WoW to USD 0.63/kg but remained 152% higher YoY, rising from USD 0.25/kg. The sharp annual increase is mainly due to a significant production shortfall in 2024 caused by adverse weather conditions, including droughts, which reduced yields and tightened supply.

Despite an expansion in onion acreage for the 2024/25 season, the market continues to experience the effects of last year’s supply constraints, maintaining elevated price levels. Furthermore, rising input costs and ongoing logistical challenges have contributed to sustained price pressures. Prices may stabilize if supply improves as new crops mature and logistical issues ease. However, persistent demand and cost pressures could keep prices elevated in the medium term.

3. Actionable Recommendations

Enhance Export Logistics and Market Access

Building on Peru’s export growth and Tajikistan’s transport subsidies and rail logistics support, stakeholders should further invest in streamlined cross-border transport infrastructure and expand trade facilitation programs. This will improve market access, reduce costs, and capitalize on regional demand, especially in neighboring countries with supply shortages.

Implement Supply Management and Quality Control Measures

Governments and producers should coordinate to control supply volumes and improve onion quality through designated shipping points, stockpiling, and quality standards enforcement. In Ukraine, investments in post-harvest handling and grading training can help mitigate quality deterioration, reduce market surpluses of substandard onions, and stabilize prices.

Develop Weather-Resilient Farming and Storage Practices

Given the impact of unseasonal rains and spoilage on Indian crops and Egypt’s reliance on favorable weather for price stability, introducing improved irrigation systems, crop insurance, and advanced storage technologies will help protect yields and reduce post-harvest losses. These measures can enhance supply stability and moderate price volatility in the face of climatic risks.

Sources: Tridge, Fresh Plaza, East Fruit, JoongAng Daily Business Standard