Tomato growers in Pakistan are contending with a steep decline in market prices, affecting their operations. A farmer highlighted the disparity, noting the government imported tomatoes at approximately $1.34 per kilogram, yet local growers are compelled to sell at just $0.01 per kilogram, urging governmental intervention to mitigate losses.
Further compounding the issue, recent floods have devastated crops, and the subsequent price drop has forced farmers to waste produce valued in the millions of rupees. As Ramazan approaches, reports indicate an abundant harvest has led to oversupply, causing consumer prices to fall. This offers some relief to consumers burdened by high utility costs, while growers face losses.
In Karachi, street vendors reportedly sell tomatoes for $0.33 per five kilograms, despite the produce often being underripe. Meanwhile, some vendors sell the same quantity for $0.33 for 2.5 to 3 kilograms. Conversely, certain retailers maintain higher prices, offering ripe tomatoes at $0.10 to $0.17 per kilogram and dismissing the 5-kilogram bags priced at $0.33 as inferior.
Source: Aaj English TV
