Why have market prices approached those of stores?

Until recently, the price difference between markets and stores was noticeable, and many preferred markets for savings. However, now the situation has changed: shoppers note that there is practically no significant difference in the cost of products.

"The price difference is only 50 gyapiks, maximum one manat. Last year at this time, tomatoes cost 1.50-2 manats, and now their price reaches 4-5 manats," shared one of the respondents.

Fruit prices have also increased significantly. According to a market seller, bananas cost 3.5 manats, grapes - 3 manats, pears - from 3 to 5 manats, apples - 2 manats, and higher quality ones - 3 manats. Local mandarins are priced at 4-4.50 manats, while Turkish oranges are sold for 3.50 manats.

In stores, the price situation is similar: potatoes cost 1.40 manats, onions - 1.20 manats, cucumbers - 2.90 manats, peppers - 5.60 manats. Apples can be bought for 2 manats, pears - for 6 manats, mandarins - for 4 manats. Orange prices vary from 2 to 3 manats, and kiwi is sold for 5-6 manats.

Economists explain that in many cases, stores offer agricultural products cheaper than markets. This is related to their marketing strategy: stores strive to sell goods before their expiration date. At the same time, prices continue to rise in markets due to difficulties farmers face in accessing trading points.

More details in the Xəzər Xəbər report.