Thailand Shrimp Market Update : Sep 18, 2019
Looking at Thailand’s current frozen seafood situation, majority of current vannamei shrimp supply in Thailand is on large sizes, (EZ peel 16/20 and larger, CPTO 21/25 and larger). Vannamei shrimp supply on smaller sizes is currently tight and prices remain high especially compared to India and Indonesia. After October, majority of these large size white shrimp will mostly be harvested but supply on 21/25 and smaller shrimp will be starting to improve and price may correct during November and December. Next major harvest for large sizes will be earliest around May 2020.
Many farmers typically rest their ponds during Thailand’s cool season (December through February) as cool temperatures increase risk for new seeding. First quarter of every year is normally a low production period although decent supplies of smaller sizes may be there.
Prices on small to medium sizes is currently very high (26-30 and smaller) but expect it might soften to come more in line with India and Indonesia prices during November to December when supply is starting to improve. Some processors and suppliers are already starting to offer small to medium sizes for Nov-Dec shipment but basically on speculation and below current actual cost. Exporters must use much more speculation than in the past to keep things moving through their plants.