The wholesale and retail markets have observed a decrease in tomato prices following a surge in supply recently, according to officials from APMC markets in Pune and Narayangaon. In Pune's retail markets, prices have declined to Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg from the previous Rs 100 to Rs 120. The Narayangaon market reported an increase in supply from 10,000 crates three weeks ago to 30,000 to 35,000 crates recently, leading to a price drop to Rs 100 to 400 per crate, with each crate containing 20 kg of tomatoes.
Sharad Gongarde, secretary of the Narayangaon tomato market, noted the significant increase in tomato supply. An APMC official highlighted the potential for further price reductions in the coming weeks due to the expected harvest at the end of August.
Balasaheb Konde, head of Pune's Gultekadi marketyard, mentioned that the market price has reduced to Rs 10 to Rs 25 per kg, with a recent arrival of 1,588 quintals exceeding usual demand. The fluctuation in tomato prices, especially during the monsoon months, is attributed to the impact of summer heat and rainfall on plantations. Despite the decrease in wholesale prices, retail market customers like Sanket Deshpande and Akash Sale reported paying higher prices, attributed to lower market arrivals according to retailers.
Tomato price fluctuation in Hyderabad
In Hyderabad, the tomato market has experienced a notable fluctuation, with prices plummeting by 80 percent in a span of less than a month. Previously, the cost of tomatoes escalated to Rs 100 per kg but has now adjusted to Rs 20 per kg. This price adjustment has been attributed to a supply-demand imbalance initially triggered by crop damage from heavy rainfall in Telangana and surrounding regions, leading to a significant reduction in tomato supply.
However, the situation has stabilized, with supply levels returning to normal, thereby reducing prices in Hyderabad and its adjacent districts. The initial surge in prices had led to a decrease in sales volume, as consumers turned to alternative vegetables. Additionally, the impact was felt by local restaurants and eateries, which had temporarily reduced the use of tomatoes in their dishes. Despite the recent price drop, the potential for further fluctuations remains, particularly with the ongoing Southwest Monsoon and anticipated heavy rainfall, which could influence future tomato prices in the region.
[ Rs 100 = €1.10 ]
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com