Tractor sales hold steady despite weather challenges

Sales of new tractors remained steady in the past month, only three per cent down on the same month last year and putting the year-to-date (YTD) figure at around seven per cent behind the same time last year, the Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia (TMA) reported.

This came despite challenging conditions in the market with parts of the nation in drought and other parts of the country experiencing heavy rain, the TMA said.

Underlying orders and enquiry rates remain solid despite market challenges which maintains a level of optimism that the market will continue to improve, the organisation added.

“However with the general uncertainty surrounding the current federal election cycle combined with the impact of tariffs being imposed in the US, one cannot be certain that activity won’t slip back here in Australia,” said TMA executive director, Gary Northover.

In light of the United States imposing tariffs on Australia and the country not imposing reciprocal tariffs, Northover said the impact on the tractor market is currently unclear.

“The underlying cost of product due to tariffs being imposed on goods being imported to America will likely have an impact on the sale price of machines being sent here,” Northover said.

“We can’t be overly optimistic for the future and remain in a state of ‘wait and see’.”

Sales performance across the states:

Sales performance across categories:

Combine harvester sales bounced back a little this month off the back of some sharp incentives from manufacturers, the TMA said, however the outlook for the full year remains soft given the very strong past couple of years in this market segment.

Baler sales continue to struggle, down another 14 per cent for the month to be 32 per cent behind year-to-date.

Finally, sales of out-front mowers have dried up considerably, down another 40 per cent on the same time last year in what is proving to be a very tough market.