Aroma Trading Limited

Market Report October 2003

Geranium Oil
The minimum export control price for Egyptian Geranium Oil is now confirmed at a level which is 30% above the price we paid back in February. Attempts to reverse or resist these higher prices are not helped by a number of French and UK traders having to honour existing agreements, most having delayed buying Geranium Egypt in the hope that prices would would move in the opposite direction. Now they have to honour their commitments. Meanwhile Chinese Geranium Oil becomes more competitively priced as the Chinese currency (Renmembi) is tied to the weakening U.S. Dollar. If the supplies of Chinese Geranium remain consistent in quality and price, Egyptian suppliers may have to review their position.

Tangerine Oil
Chinese crop now available, with quantities produced similar to last year.

Eucalyptus Oil
Chinese Eucalyptus has slipped slightly in price, with re-sellers expecting further reductions before year end.

Coriander (Ukraine)
Our supplier advises it expects prices will advance due to shortage of Coriander Seeds available. Spot stocks are limited at this time.

Spearmint Oil
Pricing for US-produced Spearmint remains stable. Chinese Spearmint Oil prices have jumped 10-15% for 60% material based on lower volumes distilled from second cutting.

Grapefruit Oil
Although figures forecast a 10% increase in combined US Pink / White Grapefruit, there is no guarantee that the volume of Grapefruit Oil will benefit, as quantities are always dependant on juice production.