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Rice, Maize, Wheat Prices Stable in December

Feb 3rd, 2014 • by Sara Gustafson

The latest FEWS Net Monthly Price Watch was released this week, citing stable international maize, rice, and wheat prices in December. Maize prices were over 30 percent lower than their December 2012 levels; global maize stocks are expected to hit their highest levels in over a decade due to near-harvest records in the United States, high stocks in South America, and decreasing overall use estimates. World soybean and palm oil production are also expected to reach record levels in 2013-2014. Soybean prices in December were below their 2012 levels.

Food Prices Steady in December, Slightly Lower in 2013

Jan 9th, 2014 • by Sara Gustafson

The latest FAO Food Price Index, released this week, remained largely unchanged from last month's at 206.7 points. Overall, the Index was slightly lower in 2013 than in 2012; food prices declined 1.6 percent in the past year. However, 2013 levels were still the third highest annual value on record.

The Cereal Price Index declined 1.4 percent from November due to record harvests and large global supplies, particularly for wheat and maize. On the other hand, rice prices rose slightly in December. In 2013, the Cereal Index fell by 17 points from 2012.

FAO Food Price Index Unchanged in November

Dec 6th, 2013 • by Sara Gustafson

The latest FAO Food Price Index was released yesterday, remaining virtually unchanged from October at 206.3 points. The Index is 4.4 percent below its November 2012 level.

The Cereals Index dropped two points in November, and is a full 24 percent lower than it was in November 2012. This year's record cereals crop is the main driver of this reduction in cereals prices, particularly for wheat, maize, and rice.

Global Food Prices Becoming Less Volatile

Nov 13th, 2013 • by Sara Gustafson

Global food prices are becoming less volatile compared to recent years, according to a new FAO report. The November 2013 Food Outlook credits the more balanced markets to the recovery of global cereal inventories. 2013 has seen a significant increase in cereal production, largely based on increased maize crops in the US and record wheat crops in CIS countries.

Highlights for other crops include:

FEWS Net Monthly Price Watch Released

Nov 1st, 2013 • by Sara Gustafson

The latest FEWS Net Monthly Price Watch was released yesterday. The report sees declines in the majority of international prices, with the exception of soybeans.