AZE.US
With the Novruz holiday approaching, markets in Azerbaijan are becoming increasingly crowded as people purchase ingredients for traditional festive dishes.
According to vendors, prices for most products typically used for the holiday table have remained relatively stable, although some items have seen noticeable increases.
One of the main exceptions is hazelnuts, which have become significantly more expensive compared with last year.
Sellers say the price increase is related to weather conditions that affected the harvest earlier in the season.
“Hazelnuts were selling for about 14 manats per kilogram last year, but now they cost around 28 manats, which means the price has doubled,” one vendor said.
Meanwhile, walnut kernels are currently being sold at local markets for approximately 8 to 15 manats per kilogram, depending on quality.
Prices for fruits and vegetables have not changed dramatically, traders say, although some imported products have become more expensive.
In particular, fruits and vegetables imported from Iran have seen price increases due to higher purchase costs.
At present, kiwi is selling for around 4-5 manats per kilogram, while oranges cost about 3-4 manats per kilogram.
Market vendors say tomatoes currently cost around 4-4.5 manats per kilogram, while cucumbers range between 3 and 3.5 manats.
Another traditional symbol of Novruz – seməni, sprouted wheat used as a decorative element of the holiday table – has already appeared in markets. Prices vary depending on size and decoration, ranging from 1 to 8 manats.
Despite the growing number of shoppers ahead of the holiday, vendors note that consumer purchasing power remains relatively limited, and buyers are spending carefully as they prepare for the celebrations.