AZE.US
Summer is in full swing at Baku’s food markets, with stalls packed with colorful fruits, fresh herbs and local vegetables. But despite the seasonal abundance, many buyers say prices remain too high.
According to Demokrat.az, prices differ sharply depending on the market.
At Yashil Bazaar, traditionally one of the most expensive markets in the capital, cherries are being sold for 5-12 manats per kilogram ($2.90-$7.05), depending on variety. Apricots cost 4-7 manats ($2.35-$4.10) per kilogram.
Vendors say they cannot lower prices because quality produce from the regions is already expensive at wholesale level. Transport costs and market stall fees are also added to the final price.
One fruit seller said demand has weakened compared with previous years. According to him, many customers no longer buy fruit by the kilogram and instead ask for 300 or 500 grams. As a result, sellers are often left with large volumes of unsold produce at the end of the day.
Prices are noticeably lower at the 8th Kilometer market, which is widely seen as one of Baku’s more affordable shopping areas. There, cherries can be found for 3-4 manats ($1.75-$2.35) per kilogram. Strawberries cost 2.5-4 manats ($1.45-$2.35), while watermelon from Sabirabad sells for 70-80 qəpik ($0.41-$0.47) per kilogram. Melon costs around 1.20 manats ($0.70) per kilogram.
Fresh herbs remain among the cheapest items. A bunch of coriander, dill, basil or mint costs 20-30 qəpik ($0.12-$0.18).
Vegetables are also more affordable than fruit. Zira tomatoes are sold for 2.50 manats ($1.47) per kilogram, while regular tomatoes cost around 1.50 manats ($0.88). Cucumbers range from 1 to 1.80 manats ($0.59-$1.06), depending on type.
Shoppers say prices have fallen slightly compared with last month, but food shopping still puts pressure on family budgets. They also point to major price differences between markets, saying the same quality produce can cost very different amounts in different parts of Baku.
At Nasimi Market, where prices are generally between central and suburban markets, local peaches cost 3-5 manats ($1.75-$2.90) per kilogram, while plums sell for around 2.50 manats ($1.47).
Vendors expect prices to ease further in the coming weeks as more produce arrives from the regions. For now, Baku’s summer markets remain full, but both sellers and buyers are dissatisfied: one side complains about weak demand and losses, while the other says even seasonal fruit has become too expensive.
AZE.US