Research & development association Australian Wool Innovation Limited (AWI) informed that in the final months of 2005, prices at the luxury end of the apparel fibre market appeared to be strengthening.

Mohair prices moved gradually upward throughout 2005, but lifted strongly in November.

Although partly assisted by a marginal weakening of the South African Rand, it is more likely that a scramble by buyers realising the truly short supply situation of mohair was the main contributor.

G.Schneider, trader and processor of cashmere anticipate that Chinese cashmere prices will hold firm in the foreseeable future. While demand is strong from the Italian buyers, China has also reported recent large purchases.

The strong demand is a reflection of favourable fashion trends for cashmere, particularly in the United States, Japan and Western Europe retail markets.

Alpaca prices have also been steadily rising over the past year supported by strong demand from Hand Knitting Yarn and this result despite the increased availability of alpaca with the arrival of the new clip at the end of November and into early December.

Superfine wool prices continued to weaken on the back of higher levels of supply in this micron category.

Average monthly prices in Australia crept downwards in October and November and with only one week's data reported in December it is difficult to compare, suffice to say that the reported week gave littlecause for celebration.

AWI works with woolgrowers, researchers, processors and manufacturers. AWI initiates, commissions and delivers research and development (R&D) to Australian woolgrowers.
 
Australian Wool Innovation Limited 
 
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