Algeria's state grains agency OAIC has purchased milling wheat in an international tender which closed on Wednesday, European traders said on Thursday. Initial trade estimates put the purchase at around 600,000 tonnes, but more details are expected later on Thursday. First assessments put prices paid at about $226 and $227 a tonne on a cost and freight (c&f) basis. More detailed figures are also expected later.

Algeria does not disclose the results of its tenders and purchase reports are based on trade assessments. The wheat was sought for shipment in two periods from the main supply countries, May 1-15 and May 16-31. If sourced from South America, shipment is between April 1-15 and April 16-30. Algeria is a vital customer for wheat from the European Union, especially France. In its last reported tender on February 11, OAIC purchased around 660,000 tonnes of milling wheat to be sourced from optional origins at about $237.50 and $237.75 a tonne c&f.