How weather and importers "heated up" the potato market in Azerbaijan

Despite the beginning of the new potato harvest season in Azerbaijan, prices for this popular root vegetable still remain at record high levels. In the country's retail markets, the cost of one kilogram of potatoes varies from one manat seventy qapiks to three manats, which is approximately twice as high compared to the same period last year. And for early potatoes, buyers have to pay from three to four manats per kilogram.

What is causing such a sharp increase in prices?

The chairman of the Center for Liberal Economists, Akif Nasirli, explains the situation by the low potato yield in Azerbaijan last year, which was caused by unstable weather conditions.

"As a result, less produce was harvested. And now the market mainly offers potatoes from last year's harvest, which is why its price remains high," he noted.

Early potato varieties are currently available in limited quantities. Heavy rainfall has slowed their entry into the market, which has also contributed to price increases. Additionally, this month importers significantly reduced potato import volumes, fearing price decreases due to the appearance of fresh local produce.

"The reduction in imports combined with delays in early potato supplies led to a market shortage, which caused the price increase. However, this is a temporary phenomenon. A significant increase in the supply of local early potatoes is expected as early as next week, which should lead to a noticeable decrease in prices," Akif Nasirli predicts.

Source: Bizim.Media