Vegetable prices have declined in wholesale markets across India due to seasonal cultivation in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. According to Koyambedu wholesale traders, tomato prices, which were around $0.36-$0.48 per kilogram in retail last week, dropped by over 50% on Wednesday.
The Koyambedu wholesale market saw an influx of at least 8,000 tonnes of vegetables, leading to a reduction in retail prices. This represents an increase of at least 30% compared to the previous month. K. Arumugam, a retail vendor in Purasawalkam, noted that cultivation has picked up in Theni, The Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Salem, and Krishnagiri, all of which are known for their vast agricultural lands. He added that he is now giving customers extra tomatoes due to the price drop.
SS Muthukumar, president of the Koyambedu Semi Wholesalers Association, described this period as a "seasonal dip phase." He stated that the wholesale price of tomatoes was between $0.12-$0.18 per kilogram on Wednesday, while retail outlets were selling them for $0.18-$0.24 per kilogram, depending on quality. Prices of other vegetables have also decreased, though he expects them to rise again in about 20 days.
Current retail prices per kilogram include onions at $0.48, chilies at $0.36, carrots at $0.72, radishes at $0.24, cabbages at $0.24, brinjals at $0.24, cucumbers at $0.24, and bitter gourd at $0.24.
Source: DT Next