Key Price Launches
In 2024, Expana bolstered its position as the world’s leading agrifood Price Reporting Agency (PRA) by redefining market intelligence with new benchmark prices and coverage across critical industries. With the launch of over 500 new time series, we’ve brought unprecedented clarity to sectors long known for opacity, from agrifood to industrial materials. Our commitment to accuracy and transparency empowers businesses with the reliable insights they need to make confident decisions.
Explore how Expana is transforming the agrifood landscape and delivering unmatched value to our customers.
Brazilian Beef
Expana expanded its Brazilian Beef Exports to China Report Table to include Eye Rounds, completing the coverage of all four main round cuts. This addition provides a comprehensive view of all major cuts exported to China, addressing market participants' demand for deeper insights into pricing relationships and trade dynamics across Brazil’s beef exports. This coverage underscores the significance of China as Brazil’s largest trading partner and the world’s leading beef importer, solidifying this trade route as a key driver of the global beef market with potential ripple effects on other regions.
By including the main beef categories, from high-value cuts to commodity-grade options, the report equips market participants with a clearer understanding of trade patterns, price correlations, and market trends within this critical market. This enhancement strengthens the ability of stakeholders to make informed decisions in an intensely competitive and globally impactful export environment.
“This coverage underscores the significance of China as Brazil’s largest trading partner and the world’s leading beef importer...”
Asia Pacific Beef
Expana made its debut in the Asia Pacific beef market in April 2024, with a focus on boneless beef commonly used in hamburger patties and sausages. The coverage highlights trade flows from Australia and New Zealand to key markets like China, South Korea, and Japan. As the region’s top export-driven beef producers, Australia and New Zealand are at the forefront of meeting the growing demand in these dynamic markets.
China, Japan, and Korea dominate nearly half of global beef imports, valued at over $30 billion annually.
With China leading as the world’s largest beef importer, fueled by rising demand from its middle-class consumers, Japan and Korea are crucial secondary markets for exporters. The growth of emerging markets across regional Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East further underscores the region’s expanding appetite for beef. In 2025, Expana expands its coverage with ten new quotes for high-demand items, including chuck rolls, and beef tongues, offering exclusive insights to help clients navigate this rapidly evolving market.
“China, Japan, and Korea dominate nearly half of global beef imports, valued at over $30 billion annually.”
Beef Varieties
The forward trade windows were initiated within the beef varieties market due to the nature of which trade is done in this market. The majority of supplies are sold well before production begins for this market, leaving the spot market thinly traded more times than not. In order to more accurately reflect these market dynamics, a forward window was needed. Since the launch of these new quotes, market participants have been able to gauge where opportunities lie between the spot market and forward time frames.
This has brought greater transparency to an otherwise fairly opaque market.
“Since the launch of these new quotes, market participants have been able to gauge where opportunities lie between the spot market and forward time frames.”
Poultry
After a successful initial year of instituting a No Antibiotics Ever (NAE) Table in 2023, the decision was made not only to add a new item (4/10 Leg Meat) but also to move our reporting from Tuesday and Thursday to all five days of the week. “No Antibiotics Ever” has become a fast-growing segment of the broiler industry as many retail and Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) operations have chosen to expand their offerings. WATT Global Media’s annual Poultry Nutrition & Feed Survey, which included responses from 326 worldwide poultry and feed industry stakeholders in 2024, found that the percentage of participants who reported 100% of their operation being antibiotic-free has risen by eleven percentage points since 2019. Additionally, research supported by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association reported that in 2013, 90% of broilers received antibiotics in the hatchery.
By 2023, that number dropped to less than 1% (U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, 2024) Throughout 2024, market participants responded positively to the new quotation and the updated release schedule, as it brought additional clarity to an otherwise nontransparent market. In fact, data analytics in 2024 show 3,628 hits related to NAE poultry on Expana. In 2024, a major processor exited the production of NAE due to cost-saving measures. This created a shift in production volume and the overall landscape of the segment. Nevertheless, industry players continued to express a willingness to provide market data, and the liquidity of the complex remained strong. Looking ahead, the quotations would remain relevant as more data is collected and new trends emerge.
“Looking ahead, the quotations would remain relevant as more data is collected and new trends emerge.”
Eggs
In 2024, we expanded our market coverage to include quotations for cage-free eggs, both brown and white large, reflecting the category's continued growth and increasing significance. This addition was driven by the widespread adoption of cage-free legislation and corporate commitments across various sectors, including foodservice, food manufacturing, and institutional buyers. As these industries transition to meet new standards and consumer preferences, reliable market data for cage-free eggs has become essential for informed decision-making. The first year of reporting on cage-free egg prices has been marked by unprecedented volatility, underscoring the challenges faced by this segment.
White cage-free egg values ranged from $1.95 to $8.86 per dozen, a dramatic spread largely influenced by retail strength and the ongoing spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza. California, where cage-free production is mandated under Proposition 12, was particularly devastated, losing approximately 80% of its production capacity due to the virus. This production shortfall created supply constraints that rippled across the market, amplifying price fluctuations.
Industry stakeholders have already begun using these quotations to benchmark their negotiations, a trend that will likely continue/grow as more states transition to cage-free production.
“White cage-free egg values ranged from $1.95 to $8.86 per dozen, a dramatic spread largely influenced by retail strength and the ongoing spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza.”
Shrimp
Imports of peeled shrimp products from Ecuador have grown substantially. In the last three years, the country has become the second largest supplier of peeled shrimp to the United States, accounting for roughly 21 percent of the overall supply. As a result, Expana initiated coverage on tail-on and tail-off, P&D, Farm Raised, white shrimp from Ecuador in November 2024. Within weeks of launching the series, the newly issued benchmarks became vital in understanding how Ecuadorian origin peeled shrimp products trade compared to similar products from traditional Asian origins.
The category has been experiencing counter-seasonal support due to elevated replacement pricing overseas and steadily increasing cost of goods sold, ongoing logistical challenges, and supply concerns in-country. Peeled shrimp imports have been in decline since peaking in 2021 as market participants have been attempting to locate optimal inventories in this uncertain, high-cost environment.
“Within weeks of launching the series, the newly issued benchmarks became vital in understanding how Ecuadorian origin peeled shrimp products trade compared to similar products from traditional Asian origins.”
Salmon
Icelandic imports of fresh whole salmon have grown substantially since 2021; going from 6.4 million pounds in 2019 to 10.5 million pounds in 2023. Icelandic fresh whole fish imports as of November 2024 (latest data available) were 33.9 percent higher than the same time in the previous year. As a result, Expana initiated coverage of both boated Icelandic whole salmon and flown Icelandic whole salmon. Since the coverage started, our market reporters have gathered information and have been able to establish benchmark pricing on boated Icelandic whole salmon entering into the U.S. market.
Having visibility of this new origin in the Northeast salmon whole fish complex helps to bring greater clarity to this opaque market. There are many origins available in the Northeast U.S. market, some of the origins include Canada, Norway, Scotland, Faroe Island and Chile. Having yet another country of origin added to the complex improves the visibility of the fresh whole landscape in the marketplace.
“Icelandic fresh whole fish imports as of November 2024 were 33.9% higher than the same time in the previous year”
Squid
Due to the highly migratory nature of squid and the diverse range of species and countries of origin, Expana has significantly expanded its squid complex to provide enhanced market intelligence. This allows buyers to pivot strategically, securing products at favorable prices amid challenging supply conditions. Global squid availability remains constrained, with critical shortages from key origins. Domestic Loligo was largely unavailable during the first half of 2024, contributing to supply tightness.
Additionally, Peruvian squid imports declined by 11.2% and 19.3% from 2023 and 2022, respectively, further limiting options for buyers. These disruptions highlight the importance of showcasing alternative products to maintain supply continuity. The market tone remains steady to firm, with participants expecting current trends to persist in the near term. As such, there is an increasing need
for a broader view of the squid complex, ensuring market participants can adapt effectively in an evolving global supply landscape.
“Peruvian squid imports declined by 11.2% and 19.3% from 2023 and 2022, respectively, further limiting options for buyers.”
Molasses
There is an increased need for transparency in the sugar and sweeteners industry. The complex nature of the industry, with high levels of trade protectionism and variable input costs has led to growing demand for price intelligence. The Expana Benchmark Prices launched in 2024 provide an independent reference point for an opaque industry.
Molasses is a thick syrup and a byproduct of the sugar refining process that is used as a sweetener and is most used in baking goods, candy or rum. It is produced by crushing sugar
cane or sugar beets and its varieties include light, dark, and blackstrap. Light molasses is made from the first boiling of cane or beet juice, the by-product is the lightest in color, has the sweetest taste, and mildest flavor. Light molasses is the most popular option and typically gets used to add moisture and color to baked goods as well as in candy products.
Dark molasses comes from the second boiling of the cane or beet juice, with a thicker consistency, and a stronger flavor profile than light molasses. Dark molasses typically gets used for flavor and distinct color in baked goods and candy. Blackstrap molasses is the most concentrated type, with a bitter taste and thickest consistency by comparison. Blackstrap molasses would typically get used to make rum, marinades, sauces, glazes, and in candy products. Molasses, a byproduct of cane sugar, is mainly produced in the Southeast. Product is typically shipped from this region, with the cost calculated on an FOB basis plus freight based on the destination.
“Light molasses is the most popular option and typically gets used to add moisture and color to baked goods as well as in candy products.”
US IQF Fruit & Vegetables
Launching price assessments on items like raspberries, organic blueberries, blackberries, mangoes, bananas, peaches, organic peaches, onions, green beans, and peas is essential for fostering market transparency and supporting informed decision-making across the supply chain. These products represent a wide array of produce categories, each influenced by unique factors such as seasonality, growing conditions, global trade, and consumer demand. For instance, berries like raspberries, blackberries, and organic blueberries are often premium products that require precise pricing to reflect their value and production costs. Similarly, tropical fruits like mangoes and staple items like bananas are heavily impacted by international trade, making regular price assessments vital for monitoring global supply chain dynamics.
The inclusion of peaches and organic peaches highlights the importance of understanding both conventional and organic markets. Organic produce often commands a higher price due to the costs associated with sustainable farming practices and certification.
By analyzing price trends for organic peaches alongside conventional peaches, stakeholders and market participants can gauge the growing consumer demand for organic options. For vegetables like green beans, peas, and onions, accurate price assessments are critical. Price data helps identify potential disruptions in supply chains. Additionally, regular assessments provide insights into broader market trends, such as shifts in consumer preferences toward organic and locally sourced produce and allow for strategic planning across the supply chain. Ultimately, comprehensive price assessments in these US IQF fruit and vegetable areas benefit all stakeholders and market participants, from farmers and wholesalers to retailers and consumers as they promote informed decision-making throughout the supply chain.
“berries like raspberries, blackberries, and organic blueberries are often premium products that require precise pricing to reflect their value and production costs.”
Egyptian IQF Fruit & Vegetables
Egypt is a significant exporter of IQF vegetables, particularly to European and Middle Eastern markets, due to its favorable growing conditions, relatively low production costs, and strategic location. The assessments give Expana subscribers a reliable insight into market trends, supply chain fluctuations, and pricing pressures, enabling buyers and suppliers to make informed purchasing decisions and anticipate shifts in market demand. Additionally, it supports benchmarking against other major exporters, helping assess cost-competitiveness and price stability across regions.
IQF vegetables are widely used across the food industry, particularly in the production of ready meals, soups, sauces, and as ingredients in foodservice and retail products. By freezing vegetables individually, IQF processing ensures that each piece retains its texture, color, and nutritional value, making them ideal for high-quality, convenient food applications.
“IQF vegetables are widely used across the food industry, particularly in the production of ready meals, soups, sauces, and as ingredients in foodservice and retail products.”
Dried Apricots
Turkey is the largest producer and exporter of dried apricots. In their diced form, the fruit benefits from its versatile use across the food industry in products such as biscuits, cereal bars, breakfast cereals or muesli.
The 4 new diced apricot assessments published by Expana in 2024 offer our subscribers a comprehensive market view of a widely used food ingredient, essential to manufacturers in the snacking, bakery, and confectionery sectors, and complement Expana’s existing coverage of the whole dried fruit, the Turkish-origin dried apricots no. 4.
“The 4 new diced apricot assessments published by Expana in 2024 offer our subscribers a comprehensive market view...”
Grains
Expana introduced price assessments for European grains to address the growing demand for precise market insights into two of the region's most pivotal grain exporters: Germany and Romania. Both countries play unique yet complementary roles in the global grain trade, underscoring their importance in shaping market dynamics. Germany, as one of the European Union's leading grain producers, is known for its high-quality wheat and barley. German milling wheat, valued for its elevated protein content and superior gluten strength, is a cornerstone ingredient for premium baked goods, ranging from bread to pastries. Likewise, Germany's malting barley is indispensable to the global brewing industry, providing essential sugars, flavour and colour for beer production. While Germany's corn output is smaller, it remains a vital component of livestock feed, supporting the agricultural sector within Europe by supplying a reliable energy source for animal nutrition.
Romania, with its strategic Black Sea location and advantageous growing conditions, serves as a critical grain supplier to Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Romanian corn is widely used in animal feed across Europe, while its wheat caters to the bakery and milling industries in North Africa and the Middle East, fulfilling key consumer demands in grain-import-dependent regions. Romania's robust export infrastructure further solidifies its role as a vital supplier in the global grain supply chain. By launching price assessments for these markets, Expana provides its subscribers with valuable insights into the dynamics of these influential producers. Germany’s focus on premium grain markets and Romania’s role as a strategic export hub collectively highlight the strength and diversity of the European grain sector.
“Germany, as one of the European Union's leading grain producers, is known for its high-quality wheat and barley.”
Glass
In 2024, Expana launched 25 new Expana Benchmark Prices (EBP) dedicated to the container glass markets. As a widely used and recyclable material, glass is critical within global food and beverage markets. Most of the new series are indices containing a basket of raw materials, energy, and labor costs, and cover the UK, Europe, and the US. The launches are wholly market-leading: there is no neutral data for glass container manufacturing costs anywhere in the world except on the Expana platform. The first year of the glass EBPs has been remarkably successful, with participants from all stages of the supply chain commenting favorably on the transparency the series bring.
Throughout 2024, the glass EBPs have enabled market players to navigate turbulence in the energy markets, which are critical for glass pricing, and the launch of a monthly Container Glass Market Insight has further enhanced supply and demand analysis of the markets. The addition of three price assessments pertaining to UK glass waste, a major producer of glass waste, is also critical for the industry as a whole. As the industry seeks greater manufacturing efficiency and increased sustainability, the level of processed glass waste used to create new glass containers rises. To that end, the launch of UK glass waste price assessments empowers markets participants with greater accuracy for decision-making.
“The launches are wholly market-leading: there is no neutral data for glass container manufacturing costs anywhere in the world except on the Expana platform.”