Tractor sales plunge further

February was another slow month for tractor sales as the drought continues its grip on the Eastern states, affecting overall industry confidence.

According to the Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia (TMA), tractor sales were 14 per cent down on figures recorded this time last year, with NSW and Victoria the hardest hit. Both states recorded a 22 and eight per cent drop respectively.

Other states also experienced a slump in tractor sales, including WA, SA and Tasmania who have had a decent 2018. WA is now down six per cent on what was a great year last year, South Australia down a whopping 30 per cent and Tasmania down around 12 per cent following a stellar year.

The silver lining was the slight improvement in sales in Queensland, which were up four per cent for the month and now only down three per cent on last year.

“We’ve all been praying for rain and the heavens delivered in Queensland, the effects of which will be seen in the months ahead,” said TMA executive director, Gary Northover.

Sales across all four tractor categories were down, with the larger tractors (100 to 200hp) recording the largest declines.

In other agricultural machinery segments, combine harvester sales continue to struggle. “Good stock levels remain available around the country so if demand improves, dealers will be ready to deal,” Northover said.

Baler sales bucked the trend and were up 25 per cent year-on-year after a great start in January.

Out front mower sales were steady for the month but were still around 16 per cent down on a yearly basis.