Copra Prices In Tonga.

A friend in Nukualofa (Tonga) writes to the Editor, under date July 18: At present, copra is purchased by the trader in its green state, at depots scattered over the island, and situate in districts up to 25 miles distant.

The weighing rates are 33 lbs. for 1/in town, and 35 lbs. for 1/- in the coun try. These weighings, based on a 50 per cent, shrinkage, equals £6/14/- and £7 per ton, dry copra. Charges incurred before the product gets to the ship are: Trader’s labor or commission, up to £100 (per ton).

Transport to storage, up to £1 0 0 Labor rebagging and transport to ship 0 3 6 Bags and twine 0 16 0 Export fee and wharfage £1 1 0 Insurance, interest, supervision, upkeep of drying platforms, tally clerks, etc.

Tlie above may be of interest to you when making comparisons.