Prices for herbs from Georgia increased last week. Local farmers spoke about several reasons in local and foreign markets affecting the prices.
The previous season was not that successful for Georgian herb growers. If the average wholesale price of dill in the same period last year was 4 GEL/kg ($1.34), this year it is 7 GEL/kg ($2.65). Higher prices this season are related to the less successful last season.
The first reason for the price change is the increased demand in export markets. During the past months, the Russian and Ukrainian markets, where Georgian herbs are exported, were supplied by Iran.
Except for the demand, prices are also affected by local production tendencies. In addition, prices are affected by heavy snow in western regions of Georgia, which causes delays in harvesting. Farmers expect even higher prices for herbs during the next weeks.