AZE.US
Fruit prices remain high in Azerbaijani markets despite the start of the summer season, frustrating buyers who expected seasonal produce to become cheaper.
The increase is especially noticeable for fruits commonly used to make jam and compote, including apricots, cherries, sour cherries and peaches.
In local markets, apricots are being sold for around 5 to 6.50 manats per kilogram, or about $2.90 to $3.80. Peaches are also reported at around 5 manats, while overall fruit prices range from about 1.50 to 6 manats depending on the product and quality.
“The market is expensive. Everything is expensive,” one buyer said.
Sellers say the main reason is that the season has not yet reached full supply. According to them, the amount of fruit reaching markets is still limited, which keeps prices high.
They expect prices to gradually decline in the coming days as more local produce becomes available.
“All the fruits are local. Prices are still high now, but in about a week everything should stabilize,” one seller said.
Farmers and households, however, say this year’s weather has also played a major role. Cold temperatures and heavy rains damaged crops in some areas, reducing the harvest.
One resident said she usually has enough fruit from her own garden to prepare large amounts of jam and compote, but this year much of the crop was lost because of the rain.
“At this time of year, I would usually be making a lot of jam and compote. Now I go to the market and see these prices,” she said.
Higher costs for cultivation, maintenance and transportation are also affecting final prices.
Market sellers believe fruit may become cheaper once supply increases. But for now, many families in Azerbaijan are paying more than expected for products that are usually considered part of the summer table.
AZE.US