Australian Wool Sales Commentary from AWI (28 May 2026)

This week saw the Australian wool market record successive days of strong gains, with the EMI finishing 54 cents higher at 1,934 ac/kg and the WMI closing 39 cents firmer at 2,125 ac/kg. This places the EMI at its highest level since 9th May 2019.

Strength was also reflected in USD-denominated returns, with the EMI rising 49 US cents to 1,385 USc/kg. Year-on-year, the EMI is now sitting 730 cents or 60.6% higher in AUD terms, while USD returns are up 609 cents or 78.4%.

Fine Merino types (16.5–19µm) recorded another very strong week, gaining 60–65 cents across the selling centres, supported by continued buyer competition for the finer end of the Merino market. Medium Merinos (19.5–21µm) also attracted solid support, lifting 55–60 cents, while crossbreds (25–32µm) maintained recent momentum, rising 30–35 cents. Merino cardings also performed strongly, adding 30–35 cents across the sale rooms.

Notably, the market absorbed both the price increases and the firm Australian dollar, indicating underlying demand within the auction system remained strong. This suggests processors and exporters are focused on securing volume.

The smaller national offering of 25,712 bales, combined with expectations of further seasonal tightening in coming weeks, is likely adding urgency for buyers looking to secure sufficient inventory through the winter period. With shearing activity slowing, available auction volumes are expected to remain constrained in the short term.

Of note this week was an increase in lower-style wool entering the market. However, the caution evident in recent weeks was largely absent, further suggesting buyers are currently prioritising volume and procurement over style differentials, even within a rising market.

Next week sees only Sydney and Melbourne selling with 23,302 bales of Australian wool being offered.

Source: AWI