Week 29 - January 2026
Eastern Market Indicator (EMI)
Eastern Market Indicator (EMI)
Microns
AWEX Auction Micron Price Guides
Sales held Tue 13th Jan & Wed 14th Jan 2026
Offering (Aust. Only)
Offering (Aust. Only)
Sales Week 29: 15th January 2026
Currency Movements
Currency Movements
Sales Week 29: 15th January 2026
Forecast
Forecast
Scheduled Australian Wool Auction Sales
AWI Commentary
The first sale week of the 2026 calendar year delivered one of the strongest openings in recent history, with the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) finishing 107 cents higher at 1,648 c/kg clean. This result places the EMI 38.5% above the same period last year, and at its highest level since 15th January 2020, when the EMI closed at 1,643 c/kg clean. The week also represents the strongest start to a calendar year since 2011.
Western sale room results were similarly positive, with the Western Market Indicator (WMI) closing at 1,846 c/kg clean, up 131 cents on the week.
Gains were recorded across all sectors, with fine Merino wools (≤19.0µm) finishing 120–130 cents dearer, and medium Merino fleece (19.5–24.0µm) showing the strongest improvement at 130-140 cents higher. Crossbred fleece gained 30–40 cents, while cardings improved 60–70 cents.
The Australian dollar was little changed against the US dollar this week, stabilising after recent declines and trading around US66 cents.
The opening sale of 2026 confirmed a decisive shift in market sentiment, with buyer behaviour indicating urgency rather than caution following the seasonal recess. Competition was concentrated on well-prepared Merino fleece, particularly within the core 18–21 micron range, suggesting confidence in down stream demand rather than short-term opportunistic buying.
The scale of the price movement points to buyers actively lifting limits to secure volume, rather than the market simply responding to reduced offerings. This week’s results reflect a demand-driven adjustment supported by tight supply conditions. Next week’s increased offering of 43,326 bales will test these renewed demand signals and determine whether current levels can be maintained as a firmer base.
Next week will see all three centres sell on the Tues-Wed roster.
