The new tractor industry experienced another stellar month in March, with sales experiencing a 64 per cent rise on the same period last year.

Figures released by the Tractor and Machinery Association (TMA) of Australia showed an excess of 15,000 tractors have been sold across Australia in the last 12 months, 40 per cent ahead of the previous 12 months of 2019.

All reporting categories enjoyed significant rises, with the;

• Under 40hp (30kw) range up 61 per cent for the month | 68 per cent year-to-date (YTD),
• 40 to 100hp (30-75kw) range up 70 per cent | 68 per cent YTD,
• 100-200hp (75-150kw) range up 58 per cent | 53 per cent YTD; and
• Over 200hp (150kw) range up 72 per cent | 92 per cent YTD.

The activity was strong in all states, with New South Wales again at the standout up 98 per cent for the month and 105 per cent YTD. Queensland reported another steady rise of 64 per cent, now at 63 per cent for the quarter. Victoria experienced a 47 per cent rise and is sitting 45 per cent ahead for the year.

Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania experienced 70 per cent, 14 per cent and 65 per cent respectively for the month.

Gary Northover, TMA Executive Director, said the combination of the Government’s Instant Asset Write Off Scheme, alongside the outstanding weather conditions, have been driving demand. However, the industry still faces some supply shortages and the effects of COVID have placed a strain on local deliveries.

“While the recent rain events have caused havoc in some regions, the overall effect of the rain is expected to be positive so the Instant Asset Write Off Scheme due to expire on June 30, 2021; we expect a continuation of strong demand for machines to remain at least until then,” Mr Northover said.

“Beyond this, we are anticipating a ‘tapering off’, the depth and duration of which is still largely unknown, suffice to say the industry remains healthy.”

Dealers are reporting an increased demand for Combine Harvesters as the order intake season comes underway. Sales have gone past the 650 unit in the last 12-month period, up from 530 for the previous 12 months.

For the first time in some time, Baler sales dipped but continue to be up 39 per cent for the year. Out-front Mowers have also slowed but remain 35 per cent ahead of the same time last year.

Source: TMA | More Good News for Tractor Sales – March 2021

13 April 2021