In recent days, fruit and vegetable prices in Azerbaijani markets have raised concerns among consumers. Price hikes are particularly noticeable for staple products that are used daily.
According to BAKU.WS, potatoes, a household essential in almost every Azerbaijani kitchen, are currently selling for between 1.50 and 2 manats per kilogram.
The increase in prices is not only due to weather conditions. Prolonged rainy weather has complicated harvesting, which has pushed up production costs for farmers. Rising fuel and transportation expenses have also contributed to the overall price surge in markets across the country.
So, when can consumers in Azerbaijan expect fruit and vegetable prices to decrease? And will they be lower compared to last year?
Economist and expert Khalid Karimli said in an interview that price reductions are expected during the upcoming harvest season:
"I believe we'll begin to see prices drop by the end of May and throughout June and July. During that time, cheaper seasonal produce will enter the market. Currently, most fruits and vegetables on sale are greenhouse-grown, which tends to be more expensive."
Karimli added that a significant factor will be the mass supply of produce from open fields:
"When large volumes of fruits and vegetables are harvested outdoors and brought to market, prices will naturally decline. Will they be cheaper than last year? Not necessarily, if the quantities match last year's levels, they may still be slightly more expensive. But they will be lower than current prices."
Source: baku.ws
