Pepper Future Mkt Declines

Kochi: Pepper futures market, which was facing high volatility during the trading on March 18, fell at close on pessimistic activities. Indian parity was at $3,900-3,950 a tonne (c&f) and continued to remain most competitive in the world market at present with chances of more demand coming for heavy pepper (MG 1) coming to India. In the international market was said to be passing through uncertainty, as the farmers were firm on their stand without making much offers. All other origins were firm at higher levels. Indonesia was offering L Asta at over $4,100 a tonne while Vietnam Asta was quoted at above $4,300 a tonne. March contract on NCDEX on March 18 fell by Rs 112 a quintal on March 18 to close at Rs 14,675. The fall in other contracts was from Rs 45 to Rs 140 a quintal. On NMCE April contract declined by Rs 109 a quintal to close at Rs 14,975 from Rs 15,084. Total turn over on NCDEX increased by 677 tonne to close at 13,202 tonne while on NMCE it went up by 203 tonne to 1,799 tonne. Total open interest on NCDEX dropped by 459 tonne to 19,819 tonne.