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Wool Price Trend and Forecast

⟳ Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026
  • Commodity Pricing

wool Price Trends by Country

nzNew Zealand
zaSouth Africa
auAustralia

Global wool Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price Watch™ provides price assessments for Wool across the top trading regions.

Asia Pacific

  • Eastern Market Indicator (EMI), Australia Grade Price Trend
  • 17 Microns Merino Wool, North Australia (Sydney) Grade Price Trend
  • 17 Microns Merino Wool, South Australia (Melbourne) Grade Price Trend
  • 18 Microns Merino Wool, North Australia (Sydney) Grade Price Trend
  • 18 Microns Merino Wool, South Australia (Melbourne) Grade Price Trend
  • 18 Microns Merino Wool, West Australia (Fremantle) Grade Price Trend
  • 19 Microns Merino Wool, North Australia (Sydney) Grade Price Trend
  • 19 Microns Merino Wool, South Australia (Melbourne) Grade Price Trend
  • 19 Microns Merino Wool, West Australia (Fremantle) Grade Price Trend
  • 20 Microns Merino Wool, North Australia (Sydney) Grade Price Trend
  • 20 Microns Merino Wool, South Australia (Melbourne) Grade Price Trend
  • 20 Microns Merino Wool, West Australia (Fremantle) Grade Price Trend
  • 21 Microns Merino Wool, North Australia (Sydney) Grade Price Trend
  • 21 Microns Merino Wool, South Australia (Melbourne) Grade Price Trend
  • 21 Microns Merino Wool, West Australia (Fremantle) Grade Price Trend
  • Strong Wool Indicator, New Zealand Grade Price Trend


Middle East

  • SA Merino Indicator, South Africa Grade Price Trend
  • SA Merino Fleece MF4–MF5, 18.0 µ, South Africa Grade Price Trend
  • SA Merino Fleece MF4–MF5, 19.0 µ, South Africa Grade Price Trend
  • SA Merino Fleece MF4–MF5, 20.0 µ, South Africa Grade Price Trend
  • SA Merino Fleece MF4–MF5, 21.0 µ, South Africa Grade Price Trend
  • SA Merino Fleece MF4–MF5, 22.0 µ, South Africa Grade Price Trend
  • RWS Certified Merino Wool, South Africa Grade Price Trend

 

Note: In assessments structured as CIF [Importing Port] (Exporting Country), the country mentioned in brackets indicates the primary origin of supply (exporting country), while the named port refers to the destination port in the importing country. Other Incoterms (FOB, FD, EXW, etc.) should be interpreted in accordance with standard international trade definitions.

Wool Price Trend Q4 2025

In Q4 2025, the global wool market has been trending upwards, with prices across Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand increasing by approximately 5–7% quarter-on-quarter overall. The rise has been reflecting improving sentiment at major auction centres, supported by steady demand from textile manufacturers and tighter supply conditions in key producing regions. Seasonal restocking by spinners ahead of winter production cycles has been sustaining market momentum, while cautious selling by growers has been underpinning price stability. Overall, the global wool market has been indicating a positive recovery trend, with limited volatility and healthy trade activity across Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand during the fourth quarter of 2025.

Australia: Wool prices in Australia, Grade Eastern Market Indicator (EMI)

In Q4 2025, the Australian wool average price, measured by the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI), price trend has been recording a quarter-on-quarter increase of around 17%, with prices assessed in USD/MT terms. The rise has been reflecting improving sentiment across the Australian wool auction market after softer conditions earlier in the year. Stronger buying interest from global textile manufacturing hubs has been supporting demand for fine Merino wool throughout the quarter. In December 2025, the EMI has been increasing by around 3% month-on-month, driven by higher auction participation and seasonal restocking by spinners ahead of winter apparel production. At the same time, relatively tighter wool supply due to cautious selling by growers has been sustaining the upward price momentum. Overall, the EMI has been indicating a steady recovery trend in the global wool market during Q4 2025.

South Africa: Wool prices in South Africa, Grade SA Merino Indicator

In Q4 2025, the South African wool price, measured by the SA Merino Indicator, has been trending upwards with a quarter-on-quarter increase of around 18%, reflecting improved market conditions compared to Q3 2025. The trend has been reflecting growing demand for Merino wool in international markets and stronger participation in auctions during the quarter. In December 2025, the SA Merino Indicator price in South Africa has been rising by approximately 5% month-on-month, supported by steady buying from global textile manufacturers and seasonal restocking by spinners ahead of winter production. At the same time, relatively tighter wool supply due to cautious selling by growers has been sustaining the upward momentum. Overall, the SA Merino Indicator has been indicating a healthy recovery in the South African wool market during Q4 2025.

New Zealand: Wool prices in New Zealand, Grade Strong Wool Indicator

In Q4 2025, New Zealand wool price trend, measured by the Strong Wool Indicator, has been trending upwards with a quarter‑on‑quarter increase of around 14%, reflecting improving sentiment in the New Zealand wool auction market compared to Q3 2025. The trend has been reflecting strong export demand and tighter supply conditions, as wool volumes available at major sales have been contracting, supporting competitive bidding during the quarter.

In December 2025, the Strong Wool Indicator has been rising by approximately 7% month‑on‑month, driven by higher participation in auction sales and sustained demand from offshore buyers ahead of winter production cycles. At the same time, New Zealand’s robust primary sector performance, including record‑high red meat export values and overall strength in food and fibre sectors, has been underpinning positive momentum for animal fibres such as wool. Overall, the Strong Wool Indicator has been indicating a strong recovery trend in the New Zealand wool market during Q4 2025.

Wool Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2025

Australia: Wool prices in Australia, Grade Eastern Market Indicator (EMI)

In Q3 2025, the Australian wool price trend, measured by the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI), has been recording a quarter-on-quarter increase of around 3%, reflecting improving sentiment in the wool auction market compared with Q2 2025. The trend has been reflecting increased demand from key spinning and textile sectors as buyers have been replenishing inventories following a period of cautious purchasing earlier in the year. In September 2025, the EMI has been rising sharply by around 7% month-on-month, supported by stronger domestic auction results and positive forward contracts with offshore buyers. Market confidence has also been influenced by better‑than‑expected economic data from major wool‑exporting countries, which have been boosting overall commodity confidence and encouraging broader participation in wool auctions. At the same time, seasonal supply constraints have been contributing to tighter availability at key selling centres across Australia. Overall, the EMI has been indicating gradual strengthening in the Australian wool market during Q3 2025.

South Africa: Wool prices in South Africa, Grade SA Merino Indicator

In Q3 2025, the South African wool price trend, measured by the SA Merino Indicator, has been trending upwards with a quarter‑on‑quarter increase of around 4%, reflecting improved auction sentiment compared with Q2 2025. The trend has been reflecting firmer buying interest from textile manufacturers as global buyers have been replenishing inventories following seasonal demand recovery. In September 2025, the SA Merino Indicator has been rising sharply by around 10% month‑on‑month, supported by stronger auction participation and improved export prospects. South Africa’s expanding wool flows into European and Middle Eastern markets have been helping drive competitive bidding, particularly as demand has been strengthening ahead of the winter yarn production cycle. Additionally, the annual Cape Town Wool Festival and associated industry forums have been spotlighting South African wool’s quality and sustainability credentials, encouraging greater grower confidence and buyer engagement at auctions. At the same time, relatively tighter wool supply due to cautious selling has been sustaining upward price momentum. Overall, the SA Merino Indicator has been indicating a positive recovery in the South African wool market during Q3 2025.

New Zealand: Wool prices in New Zealand, Grade Strong Wool Indicator

In Q3 2025, the New Zealand wool price trend, measured by the Strong Wool Indicator, has been trending upwards with a quarter‑on‑quarter increase of around 2%, reflecting modest improvement in market sentiment compared to Q2 2025. The trend has been reflecting steady demand from offshore buyers and consistent participation at key auction centres, as textile processors have been replenishing inventories following earlier inventory drawdowns. In September 2025, the Strong Wool Indicator has been rising by around 5% month‑on‑month, supported by increased auction activity and stronger competitive bidding for coarser wool lots. Market confidence has also been influenced by the annual New Zealand Agricultural Fieldays, which has been showcasing wool alongside other primary sector commodities and helping reinforce export interest; this event has been drawing buyers and industry stakeholders, indirectly supporting wool price momentum. At the same time, tighter availability in certain wool types due to seasonal shearing patterns has been sustaining price resilience. Overall, the Strong Wool Indicator has been indicating a positive and steady trend in the New Zealand wool market during Q3 2025.

According to PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, the global wool market has been showing mixed trends across major producing regions. In Australia, the wool price trend, measured by the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI), has been declining slightly by around 1% quarter-on-quarter, reflecting softer auction participation and cautious selling by growers following stronger prices in Q1. In contrast, South African wool, tracked by the SA Merino Indicator, has been rising by approximately 4% quarter-on-quarter, supported by steady export demand and increased interest from textile manufacturers replenishing inventories after a slower start to the year. New Zealand wool, measured by the Strong Wool Indicator, has been showing a slight decrease of around 0.5% quarter-on-quarter, influenced by seasonal supply increases and moderated demand for coarser wool grades. Overall, the global wool market in Q2 2025 has been indicating cautious price movements, with tight supply conditions in some regions balanced by softer demand and seasonal trends in others, reflecting a period of relative stability with moderate volatility.

According to PriceWatch, In Q1 2025, the global wool market has been showing a strong upward trend, with prices across Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand increasing by approximately 5–10% quarter-on-quarter overall. In Australia, the wool price trend, measured by the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI), has been rising by around 10%, driven by stronger demand from textile manufacturers and limited wool availability at auctions. Market sentiment has been supported by the post-harvest seasonal cycle and preparations for international fashion seasons, which have been boosting Merino wool sales. South African wool, tracked by the SA Merino Indicator, has been trending upward by around 4%, with positive price momentum supported by increased auction participation and steady export demand. Additionally, the annual Cape Town Wool Festival in early January has been highlighting the quality of local wool, encouraging greater buyer participation and grower confidence. New Zealand wool, measured by the Strong Wool Indicator, has been increasing by about 6%, aided by tighter seasonal clip availability and strong demand from offshore buyers, while the New Zealand Agricultural Fieldays in late January has been attracting international buyers and reinforcing interest in coarser wool grades. Overall, Q1 2025 has been indicating a robust recovery phase in the global wool market, with prices supported by both seasonal supply dynamics and targeted marketing events across key regions.

Wool Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

According to PriceWatch, In Q4 2024, the global wool market has been showing steady improvement, with prices across major producing regions reflecting mixed but positive momentum. In Australia, the wool price trend, measured by the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI), has been remaining broadly stable with 0% quarter-on-quarter change, as growers have been responding to improving auction participation and renewed buying interest from textile manufacturers. South African wool, tracked by the SA Merino Indicator, has been trending higher with a 7% quarter-on-quarter increase, supported by stronger export interest into European and Middle Eastern markets as global buyers have been replenishing inventories after seasonal disruptions. New Zealand wool, measured by the Strong Wool Indicator, has been gaining traction with a 7% quarter-on-quarter rise, as demand for coarser wool types has been supported by robust processing activity and steady export flows. During the quarter, the holiday season and year-end trade patterns in major importing countries have been encouraging forward contracting and restocking, while key industry events such as the Wool Industry Conference in Cape Town and strong end-of-year Australian auction results have been contributing to positive sentiment. Overall, Q4 2024 has been indicating a cautiously strengthening global wool market, with resilient demand and improving auction dynamics across all major producing regions.

According to PriceWatch, In Q3 2024, the global wool market has been showing mixed trends, with Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand reflecting varying momentum. Australian wool, measured by the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI), has been rising slightly by around 2% quarter-on-quarter, supported by improving auction participation and steady demand from textile manufacturers. South African wool, tracked by the SA Merino Indicator, has been gaining around 7% quarter-on-quarter, driven by stronger export demand and active auction participation, while New Zealand wool, measured by the Strong Wool Indicator, has been increasing approximately 7% quarter-on-quarter, as demand for coarser wool types has been supported by tighter seasonal clip availability. During the quarter, spring shearing in the Southern Hemisphere has been limiting supply, and regional trade shows and wool fairs have been attracting buyers, reinforcing competitive bidding, while geopolitical uncertainties in some importing countries have been affecting forward contracts and shipping schedules. Overall, Q3 2024 has been indicating a cautiously strengthening global wool market, with resilient demand and improved auction dynamics across all major producing regions.

According to PriceWatch, In Q2 2024, the global wool market has been showing modest mixed trends, with Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand reflecting slight variations in price movements. Australian wool, measured by the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI), has been declining by around 1% quarter-on-quarter, influenced by cautious selling by growers and slower auction activity amid seasonal post-harvest adjustments. South African wool, tracked by the SA Merino Indicator, has been gaining approximately 1% quarter-on-quarter, supported by steady export demand and improving buyer participation at key auctions. New Zealand wool, measured by the Strong Wool Indicator, has been remaining largely stable with a 0–1% change, as seasonal shearing increased availability, balancing moderate international demand. During the quarter, Easter holiday periods in key importing regions have been temporarily slowing shipping and auction activity, while global textile buyers have been monitoring economic indicators and currency fluctuations, affecting short-term contracting and forward purchasing decisions. Overall, Q2 2024 has been indicating a cautiously steady global wool market, with supply and demand dynamics showing resilience across all major producing regions.

According to PriceWatch, In Q1 2024, the global wool market has been showing moderate gains across major producing regions, with Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand reflecting positive momentum. Australian wool, measured by the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI), has been rising by around 1% quarter-on-quarter, supported by strong auction participation and growing interest from textile manufacturers preparing for the northern hemisphere spring season. South African wool, tracked by the SA Merino Indicator, has been increasing by approximately 3% quarter-on-quarter, driven by heightened export demand and competitive bidding at key auctions. New Zealand wool, measured by the Strong Wool Indicator, has been gaining around 3% quarter-on-quarter, as tighter seasonal clip availability has been supporting prices amid stable international demand. During the quarter, the New Year and Chinese Lunar New Year holidays have been affecting shipping schedules and buyer activity, causing short-term fluctuations in auction participation, while global buyers have been responding to stronger early-year apparel orders, influencing forward contracts and restocking decisions. Overall, Q1 2024 has been indicating a cautiously strengthening global wool market, with resilient demand and supportive auction dynamics across all major producing regions.

Technical Specifications of Wool Price Trends

Product Description

Wool is a natural protein-based fibre obtained from the fleece of sheep and certain other animals. It is composed mainly of keratin protein and is widely valued for its natural crimp, elasticity, and durability. Wool fibres possess excellent thermal insulation properties, allowing them to retain warmth while remaining breathable. The fibre also has good moisture absorption capability, enabling it to absorb and release humidity without feeling damp. Additionally, wool is biodegradable, naturally flame-resistant, and resilient, which contributes to its long service life in textile applications. Its softness, flexibility, and ability to regulate temperature make wool an important raw material in the global textile industry.

Identifiers and Classification:

HS Code – 5101

Wool Synonyms:

  • Sheep Fibre
  • Animal Hair Fibre
  • Natural Protein Fibre
  • Keratin Fibre
  • Sheep Hair Fibre
  • Fleece Fibre
  • Animal Textile Fibre
  • Natural Animal Fibre


Wool Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms: Auction
  • Packaging Type: Bale

 

*Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the Wool being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

**Packaging Type refers to standard packaging size commonly used for Wool packing, ease of handling, transportation, and storage in industrial and commercial applications.

Wool Industrial Applications

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Wool prices

  • Post-Pandemic Global Demand Surge (2022–2023): After the initial pandemic slowdown, global textile and apparel markets recovered strongly in 2022–2023, driving up wool demand. Limited supply from Australia and New Zealand due to climatic and logistical constraints further tightened availability of high-quality wool. International buyers, particularly from China, Italy, and Germany, increased participation in auctions, competing aggressively for fine Merino and strong wool. Prices for key indicators like EMI and SA Merino rose sharply quarter-on-quarter, reflecting renewed market optimism. Seasonal factors, such as spring shearing and end-of-year stock replenishment, supported higher auction volumes, while inflation and rising production costs globally added to pricing pressure. This period demonstrated how market recovery and strong international demand can push wool prices upward after a period of global disruption.
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020–2021): The COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented disruption in the global textile and apparel industry. Lockdowns, port closures, and supply chain interruptions reduced demand for wool, especially from China and Europe, which are major importers. Many auctions were postponed or moved online, causing uncertainty in pricing and slower transactions. Spinners and textile manufacturers were reducing orders due to declining retail sales and temporary shutdowns. This created a downward pressure on wool prices, particularly for medium to coarse grades, while premium Merino wool saw more resilience. Additionally, logistics challenges and fluctuating currency rates added volatility, resulting in sharp month-to-month price swings. Overall, the pandemic highlighted the sensitivity of the wool market to global disruptions.
  • Australian Droughts (2018–2019): During 2018–2019, severe droughts in Australia, particularly in New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia, significantly reduced sheep grazing availability, leading to smaller wool clips. Fine Merino wool, which is highly sensitive to climate conditions, experienced tighter supply, pushing auction prices higher across key markets. Growers were often forced to sell selectively, reducing the volume of top-quality wool offered at auctions. At the same time, global buyers were competing for limited high-grade lots, further driving up prices. The drought also increased production costs, with feed and water scarcity affecting flock management. Overall, the period led to sharp quarterly fluctuations, particularly in the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) and SA Merino indicators, reflecting volatility caused by environmental factors.

Why Price Watch™?

Price Watch™ is your trusted resource for tracking global wool price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the wool market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, Price Watch™ keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, Price Watch™ provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With Price Watch™, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence wool prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with Price Watch’s™ reliable, accurate, and timely wool market data.

Track Price Watch's™ wool price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Wool Market Price Trend published by 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ reflect prevailing spot market conditions, derived from independent research, verified trade inputs, and proprietary market intelligence as of the publication date. Prices are published on the specified Incoterm and represent indicative base market levels, exclusive of applicable taxes, VAT, duties, tariffs, and other statutory charges. Actual transaction values may vary depending on volume, credit terms, contractual structure, and other negotiated conditions. Market prices are inherently subject to volatility, liquidity dynamics, regulatory changes, and evolving trade activity. The information provided is for reference and benchmarking purposes only and does not constitute an offer, recommendation, or guarantee of transactional outcomes. Users should exercise independent commercial judgment and assess their specific contractual, regulatory, tax, and application requirements before making business decisions. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ assumes no liability for decisions taken based on this information.

Wool is the natural fibre obtained from sheep and other animals, used as a raw material in the textile industry. Its price reflects raw material availability, supply-demand dynamics, and production costs, guiding traders, buyers, and exporters. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ tracks wool prices to help businesses stay informed about market movements and cost trends.

Raw wool prices vary by grade and region, with unprocessed fleece traded through auctions, mandis, and direct sales. Prices depend on quality and whether the wool is clean or greasy. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ provides up-to-date price assessments across key global markets.

The wool market is experiencing moderate demand with periodic price fluctuations due to seasonal shearing cycles and global trade patterns. Prices are affected by supply availability, animal health, climate conditions, wool quality, regional demand, and international market dynamics.

The textile and apparel industry is the primary buyer of wool, using it as a raw material for spinning into yarn and fabric. Other buyers include home textiles manufacturers (carpets, blankets, upholstery) and traders/exporters supplying bulk wool to global markets.

Wool comes from sheep and other animals such as goats (cashmere), alpacas, and llamas. The fibre is obtained through shearing and is collected from regions with significant wool-producing livestock, including Australia, New Zealand, China, and India.

Australia is the largest exporter of wool globally, followed by New Zealand, China, India, and South Africa, which also supply raw wool to international markets. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ monitors global trade flows and supply availability.

Global wool supply generally meets demand, but shortages can occur due to seasonal shearing cycles, animal health issues, or climate-related disruptions. These factors can lead to temporary price fluctuations and competition among buyers in key markets. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ closely tracks supply-demand balances to highlight potential shortages or oversupply situations.

Wool is graded based on fibre diameter (micron), staple length, colour, and cleanliness. Prices differ because finer, longer, and cleaner fibres are more desirable for high-quality yarns, while coarser or shorter fibres are less valuable. Regional supply, breed, and market demand also influence pricing. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ provides grade-wise price assessments for better market clarity.

A sudden increase in demand for wool typically leads to price appreciation due to limited supply. This creates short-term market tightness, higher premiums for premium-grade fibres, and intensified competition among buyers in global markets. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ captures these shifts in real time.

Costs for feed, pasture management, and animal health directly impact wool production expenses. When these input costs rise, the cost of producing raw wool increases, which can lead to higher wool prices in the market.

Regional wool prices differ due to variations in production costs, breed quality, climate conditions, supply levels, and transportation expenses. Local demand, auction mechanisms, and certification standards also influence pricing across different producing regions. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ tracks regional differentials to highlight pricing gaps across markets.

Wool prices are expected to remain stable to moderately increase due to steady global demand and limited expansion in wool-producing livestock. Prices may fluctuate based on seasonal shearing cycles, climate conditions, and international supply-demand dynamics. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ publishes regular forecasts projecting price direction over the next 12 months.

Yes. Reliable forecasts help buyers plan procurement, manage inventory, negotiate contracts, and control packaging costs. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ forecasts support smarter purchasing and budgeting decisions.

Global events such as extreme weather, trade restrictions, geopolitical tensions, or economic crises can disrupt wool production and trade. These disruptions often result in supply shortages, price volatility, and higher premiums for premium-grade wool in international markets. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ provides timely updates on such market-moving events.

𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜h™ gathers data from producers, converters, traders, and buyers to publish transparent Wool price assessments, market reports, and forecasts, helping stakeholders stay ahead of market trends.

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