Tomato Prices In Bengaluru: Online Platforms Sell At Over Rs 100 Per Kg

The price of tomatoes on online platforms has surged dramatically, crossing Rs 100 per kilogram. This marks a significant increase from the previously reported range of Rs 79-90, which is 50 percent higher than the local prices. In Bengaluru, tomatoes are available at Rs 55 per kilogram in the local markets, but the online prices range between Rs 95-110 per kilogram, exacerbated by weather disruptions.

This is not the first instance of such high prices. In July and August 2023, record-high tomato prices were observed, with wholesale prices exceeding Rs 100 per kilogram in some regions and retail prices crossing Rs 200 per kilogram.

Tomato production typically declines during the months of July-August and October-November, leading to a scarcity of the produce in the market. This scarcity makes it challenging to meet the demand for tomatoes, further pushing up the prices.

Adding to the woes, wholesale inflation rose for the fourth consecutive month in June, reaching 3.3 percent, up from 2.6 percent in May. The increase in prices of food items, including vegetables, has significantly contributed to this inflation.

Karnataka's Kolar district, known for being the largest tomato producer with around 15,000 acres under cultivation, exports a substantial portion of its produce to northern states and neighboring countries like Bangladesh. Sources in the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) yard indicate that at least 90 percent of tomatoes from Kolar are exported. However, incessant rain in several northern states has damaged early crops, increasing the demand for Kolar tomatoes.

For now, consumers will have to bear the brunt of rising prices and adjust their budgets accordingly.