Although Latvia's harvest season has begun, only a small share of vegetables on store shelves are locally grown, reports Latvijas Avīze. Many supermarkets are stocked with Lithuanian produce, such as potatoes, carrots, beets, and cucumbers, alongside imports from further afield, including onions from Chile and the Netherlands, zucchini from Italy, cauliflower from Germany, pumpkins from Poland, and even Argentina.
Some retailers claim to prioritise local produce, but the results vary. The chain Elvi reports that about 90% of its vegetable range is sourced from Latvian growers, including potatoes, carrots, cabbage, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and beans. However, in other retail chains, the share of local vegetables is closer to 30–40%.
Price forecasts for autumn are mixed. According to Lidl, open-field crops like potatoes, carrots, and beets may remain at last year's price level or slightly lower. However, the company warns of risks tied to heavy rainfall this summer, which may affect both harvest quality and storability. "There is a chance that by early next year, local potatoes will no longer be available," said Zane Nelke, head of corporate communications at Lidl.
Maxima also expects potential supply issues this autumn and is preparing initiatives to support local farmers.
Source: bb.lv
