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In a welcome relief to consumers, the price of tomatoes has dropped by more than 22% over the last month, with the average retail price falling from ₹67.50 per kilogram on October 14 to ₹52.35 per kilogram on November 14. According to a statement issued by the Department of Consumer Affairs on Sunday, the decrease in tomato prices is attributed to an improved supply of the vegetable across major markets in the country.
The department revealed that the price decline is largely due to an increase in arrivals from key tomato-producing regions such as Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat. In Delhi’s Azadpur mandi, the price per quintal of tomatoes dropped almost 50%, from ₹5,883 to ₹2,969, as better availability helped stabilize prices. Similar price drops were reported in markets like Pimpalgaon, Madanapalle, and Kolar.
Improved Supply and Seasonal Cycles
The improved supply follows a period of reduced production earlier in the year. According to the Department of Agriculture, tomato production for the 2023-24 season is expected to reach 213.20 lakh tonnes, a 4% increase from the 204.25 lakh tonnes in the 2022-23 season. While tomatoes are grown year-round, production levels fluctuate due to seasonal cycles. The recent surge in tomato prices during October was largely due to prolonged rains in major tomato-growing states such as Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, which affected crop quality and disrupted logistics.
However, with favorable weather conditions in recent weeks, supply chains have begun to recover. This has led to more stable pricing across the country.
Year-on-Year Price Surge
Despite the recent drop, tomato prices remain high compared to last year. A recent ICICI Bank report indicates that tomato prices have surged by 161% year-on-year. The report also highlighted that essential vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, and onions have seen sharp price hikes, with onions rising by 52% and potatoes increasing by 65%. Vegetable prices overall have eased by 4.1% month-on-month in November, but the steep year-on-year increases in key vegetables continue to put pressure on household budgets.
While the drop in tomato prices is a positive sign for consumers, the overall vegetable price trend remains a concern, with October marking a 57-month high in vegetable prices, reflecting a 42% year-on-year increase.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the recent price drop offers some respite to consumers, it is important to note that the overall price trajectory of vegetables remains elevated compared to last year. The government continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that supply chains remain stable to prevent any future price shocks.
Sources By Agencies
