At the start of the wheat season, it was thought in India that international prices could rise if large volumes of wheat were to be imported. That has not occurred, however, and GOI has taken a step to facilitate those imports while making assurances regarding the open market there. Slashed Wheat Duty to Boost Imports After much discussion and pressure from the market, the government of India (GOI) reduced the wheat import duty last week from 25 percent to 10 percent, effective immediately until February 2017. Trade considers that to be a rollback as the duty was increased to 25 percent in June 2016. Some view it an acknowledgement of the shortfall in wheat production and resulting need for imports to address the supply/demand gap and kee...
Weighing in on strategic realignment
WPI’s team was retained by the governing board of a U.S. industry organization to review a decision, reached by vote, to invest significant assets into the development and management of an export trading company. WPI’s team conducted a formal review of this decision and concluded that the current level of market saturation would limit the benefits of the investment. Based on WPI’s analysis and recommended actions, the board subsequently reversed its decision and undertook a strategic planning effort to identify more impactful investments. On behalf of numerous clients, WPI has not only assisted in identifying strategic paths but also advised their implementation.
What You Need to Know Today: After a period of limited activity, USDA reported a sizeable 613 KMT in soybean export sales, including 330 KMT to China and 283 KMT to unknown destinations, potentially also China. The purchases represent a meaningful pickup in demand and bring China closer to ful...
Key Takeaways: Dry bulk markets remain mixed with Capesize vessels seeing continued pressure from weaker demand while fixtures and rate strength gradually increases towards the smaller vessel classes. Tanker markets are pulling back from their recent highs as tonnage moves out of the Mid...