As summer approaches its midpoint, Russians are hopeful for anticipated price reductions on various popular food items including vegetables, fruits, and berries. Experts predict that August and September will bring some relief for consumers.
According to data from the expert analytical centre "AB-centre," prices for certain products have significantly increased over the past year: beets rose by 60%, potatoes by 49%, apples by 42%, and cabbage by 16%. Conversely, prices for carrots remained practically unchanged, while onions even decreased by 26%. However, when considering price dynamics not from June of the previous year, but from the beginning of the current year, these products have seen considerable inflation.
Experts anticipate a moderate decline in prices for the so-called "borscht set"; potatoes, beets, cabbage, onions, and carrots, as well as cucumbers, tomatoes, and greens, which will become more affordable due to the influx of large volumes after the harvest. However, this season's price drops are unlikely to offset the significant increases observed over the past year.
Meanwhile, domestic fruits such as apples, apricots, and plums are expected to see a slight decrease in prices. However, there should be no expectation of reduced prices for exotic fruits imported from abroad, due to currency exchange rates and transportation costs.
Adverse weather conditions such as May frosts and drought have had a significant impact on crops in various regions of Russia, including the South, Caucasus, and Volga regions. This has been an additional factor contributing to the rise in prices of agricultural products.
Source: mskgazeta.ru