The maize market has seen notable fluctuations over the past month. While South India witnessed a price drop of ₹60 - ₹100 per quintal, prices in North and Central India remained steady to slightly firm, supported by consistent demand. Last Week Overview In the past week, maize prices rose by ₹50 - ₹60 per quintal in several regions: In Kasganj (Uttar Pradesh), rack loading prices held firm at ₹2,120 per quintal. In Gulabbagh mandi (Bihar), despite a decline of ₹20- ₹30, demand remained strong, with prices touching ₹2,350. Ethanol buyers in Bengal increased their purchase price to ₹2,400 per quintal. In Delhi, maize from the Uttar Pradesh line traded at ₹2,275, while the Bihar line reached ₹2,500 per quintal. Central & Southern Market Conditions In Chhindwara (Madhya Pradesh), prices remained steady at ₹2,340 per quintal. In Sambhal mandi, despite an arrival of 40,000 bags, prices held at ₹2,175 per quintal. In Tirupati, starch plants saw a price hike of nearly ₹100 over the past month, with rates reaching ₹2,400, largely driven by strong demand from the ethanol sector and South India. Emerging Downward Pressure Market sentiment is now showing signs of weakness due to multiple factors: Under the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS), the government has started supplying rice to distilleries, which may reduce demand for maize. Old stock is still available with traders Demand in South India has weakened, reducing profit expectations for stockists in the region Production & Future Outlook Maize production in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra is estimated to be 15 - 20% higher than last year The increased supply is expected to limit any major price rally However, stable demand from ethanol companies and distilleries is expected to offer support. Experts believe that even with the arrival of the new crop, maize prices are unlikely to fall below ₹2,100 per quintal. Summary: North and East India are witnessing strong maize demand South India demand is weak, affecting returns for local stockists Higher production may keep markets under pressure Yet, demand from ethanol and distillery sectors may prevent steep price declines