TO-DAY’S PRICES.

Taranaki Daily News, 15 January 1921, Page 6

TO-DAY’S PRICES.

NO CHEAP SUGAR ’ BUSINESS NOT CONFIRMED, The hopes of a sweeping reduction in the price of sugar by the importation of Java sugar looks very much more remote than it did a few weeks ago Taranaki merchants made fairly heavy sales “to arrive” on a basis of about £lO a ton under the New Zealand price, but the shippers refused to confirm the besine-s. They now suggest merchants offer an advance of about £7 a ton on the previous price. The sample, received here is of quite good quality crystallised sugar, and while doubtless grocers will buy a certain quantity to relieve the shortage, the retail price cannot be reduced more than aidalb on to-day’s rate. In fact New Plymouth is now selling %d lb under the Board of Trade retail price, being the only town in New Zealand, except Auckland, that is doing so. Oatina, etc.—These articles have been reduced by 2s a dozen, and supplies at the new rate should arrive next week. Oatmeal is also cheaper. Onions. —Waikato are coming forward at greatly reduced prices and quality is very good. Potatoes.—Local supplies are practical! v exhausted, and supplies are now being drawn almost exclusively from Sheep Tongues.—These have been reduced 3s a dozen . Biscuits.—Practically unobtainable. Tciue Sugar—Now off the market, but a grinding plant is being installed by a local factory. Cordials, especially lemon squash made from the fruit, is in record demand. Dates—The first of the nert seasons are now io hand and are of very fine quality, while the price is attractive. Pukekohe.