Tomato prices at the APMC wholesale vegetable market have increased by more than 30 percent in early November compared to October 2025. Market data shows that prices, which were previously around ₹16 to ₹20 (US$0.19 to US$0.23) per kilogram, have now reached between ₹20 and ₹28 (US$0.23 to US$0.32) per kilogram. The rise coincides with a decline in arrivals, as only about 2,238 quintals reached the APMC yard on Monday, reflecting a lower supply than in previous weeks.
Traders and analysts attribute the price increase to colder weather and uneven production in key growing areas. They report that fluctuations in temperature and delayed harvesting cycles have affected yields, while supplies from major production zones such as Nashik, Pune, and Ahmednagar have decreased in recent days. The combination of reduced output and slower transportation has led sellers to adjust prices upward to meet ongoing demand, resulting in higher wholesale and retail tomato prices.
Growers have expressed concern that prices may climb further if weather variability persists. They note that unseasonal rains and cold spells could damage crops during the flowering and budding stages, causing flowers and buds to drop and reducing yield. Farmers warn that continued temperature instability may lower volumes arriving at markets in the coming weeks, putting further upward pressure on prices.
The upward trend is not limited to tomatoes. Prices of other vegetables have also increased due to lower harvests and logistical challenges. Green peas are selling at around ₹280 (US$3.22) per kilogram, cluster beans at nearly ₹200 (US$2.30) per kilogram, and tinda, a round gourd, at about ₹50 (US$0.57) for a 250-gram pack. Vendors attribute these higher prices to lower production and transport disruptions observed over the past several days.
According to the Regional Meteorological Center in Mumbai, dry weather is expected in regions such as Pune and Nashik until November 15. Officials from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), including scientist Shubhangi Bhute, have stated that no unseasonal rainfall is forecast for these areas. Northeasterly winds are expected to lower temperatures slightly, creating cooler conditions. The weather is projected to remain clear and dry, which could help stabilize field operations, though the effects on crop recovery and future market supply remain to be seen.
Source: Lokmat Times
