AWI Commentary Australian Wool sale (Week 44 – 1 May 2026)

This week, the Australian wool market finished slightly higher, following successive weeks of strong gains. The EMI closed 2 cents dearer at 1,897 ac/kg, while USD returns eased modestly, down 6 usc to 1,352 usc/kg. The WMI finished lower on its single selling day, losing ground for the first time in seven selling days. It closed 11 ac/kg lower at 2,114 ac/kg and 16 usc lower at 1,507 usc/kg.

A slightly softer USD provided some support to returns this week, however the Australian dollar remains relatively firm at around 0.71–0.72 USD, continuing to limit gains in USD terms.

Across the catalogue, fine Merino types (16.5–19 micron) rose 5–10 cents in the North but fell 10–20 cents in the South and West, reflecting selective demand. Medium Merino types (19.5–24 micron) eased 5–15 cents in the North and South, with larger falls of 15–35 cents in the West. Crossbreds (25–32 micron) gained 10–30 cents across most centres, while Merino Cardings were mixed but generally firm, lifting 5–15 cents in the North, steady to slightly dearer in the South, and up 10–20 cents in the West.

This week’s increased offering of 37,744 bales (+4,078) brought a broader mix of wool to market, leading to heavier discounting on lower-quality lots and a softer underlying tone. While better types continued to attract solid support, the gap between modest premiums and larger discounts saw weaker lines weigh on the market, particularly in the Melbourne sale rooms.

Next week’s offering is expected to ease by ~ 3,500 bales, which may provide some support to the market, although outcomes will remain dependent on buyer confidence and the overall quality profile of the catalogue. The market appears to be consolidating at current levels, with demand holding for better types but increasingly sensitive to quality.

The upcoming sales will see 34,290 bales being offered, Fremantle selling on Tuesday while Sydney and Melbourne on the Tuesday-Wednesday roster.

Source: AWI