COMMERCIAL.

Taihape Daily Times, Volume 7, Issue 155, 5 March 1915, Page 3

COMMERCIAL.

CANTERBURY GRAIN MARKET. CHRISTCHURCH, March 4. Although several of the millers have curtailed their buying operations, there are still several buyers in. the market, and in order to fill their requirements they have made a still further advance. As competition now appears to be easing, however, there is a slightly weaker tone in the market, and sellers And they can only do business at a penny per bushel less than the ruling price a day or two ago. For Tuscan, which is the variety chiefly offering, 6s lid at country stations has been paid, but 6s lOd is now offered. There is a large quantity of wheat, still offering, a>'< growers are anxious to take advantage of the present prices and while the demand continues. It is reported that the increased price of bread is shortening consumption, two bakers who are customers of one miller reporting a falling-off in their output of a total of 700 loaves per week. The oats market, except for Algerians, which are scarce and are selling at almost any price asked, is now somewhat easier. It is reported that Australia is importing oats from the Argentine, and colour is given to this statement by the fact that Australian buyers of New Zealand oats are offering to resell their purchases here. The principal demand is from the North Island, where seed is urgently required for autumn sowing in view of the probable scarcity of feed for stock during the coming winter. For A grade Gar tons the top price is 3s lOd, though a little more has been paid at handy stations.

There is still a demand for prime malting barley at 5s 11 to 5s 3d for good average samples. Oatsheaf chaff is firm, and the ruling prices are now £5 5/- to £5 .10/-, accord' ing to railage. Potatoes are being inquired for, but until it is seen how the main crop is likely to turn out neither sellers nor buyers are inclined to do much business. The present price offered is £4 for delivery this mouth. It is reported that crops now being dug are turning out verv well.