Despite the onset of Azerbaijan's new potato harvest season, root vegetable prices remain elevated. Retail markets show a price range from 1.70 to 3 manats per kilogram (approximately $1.00 to $1.75), nearly double compared to the previous year. Early potato varieties are priced between 3 to 4 manats per kilogram (around $1.75 to $2.35).
The chairman of the Center for Liberal Economists, Akif Nasirli, attributes the price surge to last year's low yield caused by unstable weather conditions. "As a result, less produce was harvested. And now the market mainly offers potatoes from last year's harvest, which is why its price remains high," he noted.
Limited availability of early potato varieties is noted, with heavy rainfall delaying their market entry, pushing prices upward. Importers have also reduced potato import volumes this month, anticipating price drops with the influx of fresh local produce.
"The reduction in imports combined with delays in early potato supplies led to a market shortage, which caused the price increase. However, this is a temporary phenomenon. A significant increase in the supply of local early potatoes is expected as early as next week, which should lead to a noticeable decrease in prices," Akif Nasirli predicts.
Source: Baku