AZE.US
Despite the peak summer season, prices for many fruits in Azerbaijan remain high, while vegetables are selling at more affordable rates.
According to Vesti Baku, cherries are currently offered at around AZN 5 ($2.94) per kilogram. Apricots cost between AZN 5.50 and AZN 6 ($3.24 to $3.53), while peaches are selling for about AZN 3 ($1.76) per kilogram.
Strawberries are priced at approximately AZN 4 ($2.35), while plums range from AZN 1 to AZN 1.50 ($0.59 to $0.88), depending on quality and variety.
Vegetables remain considerably cheaper.
Tomatoes are selling for between AZN 0.60 and AZN 1 ($0.35 to $0.59) per kilogram, while cucumbers cost around AZN 0.80 to AZN 1 ($0.47 to $0.59).
Vendors say the high prices are hurting sales and keeping many customers away from local markets.
They argue that retail prices are being driven by higher wholesale costs, transportation expenses, unloading fees and labor costs.
One vendor said he transports produce from approximately 360 kilometers away. After covering delivery and other expenses, he may earn only AZN 0.30 to AZN 0.50 ($0.18 to $0.29) on each kilogram sold.
“When prices are low, we sell more. When prices rise, demand falls sharply. Expensive products are not good for us either,” the vendor said.
Market sellers also blamed rainy weather and a smaller harvest for the elevated fruit prices.
Some buyers said fruits have become noticeably more expensive, while prices for most seasonal vegetables remain relatively reasonable.
Both vendors and shoppers said they hope a larger supply in the coming weeks will bring greater stability and lower prices.
AZE.US