AZE.US
Watermelons and melons are becoming cheaper at Azerbaijani markets as more local produce reaches stalls and summer demand rises.
Although the summer season has only recently begun, interest in watermelons has already increased. Some shoppers say they have been buying watermelons almost every day in recent weeks.
Buyers say a decent watermelon can now be found for around 0.70 to 0.80 manat per kilogram. Some still believe the real watermelon season comes closer to August, but many say the current produce is already good in quality.
Vendors say most of the watermelons currently sold at markets are local products brought from Sabirabad. They link the increase in demand to hot weather and the start of the beach season.
“Watermelons are coming from Sabirabad now. This is our local product. Because the weather is hot and people are going to the seaside more often, demand has increased,” sellers said.
According to vendors, watermelons were arriving in smaller quantities just a few days ago, when prices reached around 1.50 manat per kilogram. Prices have now fallen to about 0.50 to 0.80 manat per kilogram, while at some stalls they vary between 0.80 manat and 1 manat.
Melons have also become cheaper. Around 10 days ago, prices stood at 5 to 6 manats per kilogram. Now, depending on the market and quality, melons are sold for about 1.50 to 3 manats per kilogram. At some stalls, they can be found for around 1 manat.
Sellers say demand remains steady and daily sales are increasing. Some vendors report selling 20 to 30 watermelons a day.
Market participants expect supplies to grow further in the coming days. If more produce reaches the markets, prices for watermelons and melons may continue to decline.
AZE.US