By Jasper Raats
The prices of most vegetables, except for cabbage, have risen over the past month, and price increases are expected across most vegetable categories in the short term.
According to Absa’s AgriTrends report, despite a decrease in supply, cabbage prices fell at the beginning of March due to weak consumer demand. The average price of cabbage dropped to R3 356 per tonne, a 6,2% decrease since the end of January. However, prices are expected to gradually rise until the end of April, when the new harvest starts.
Carrot prices have shown strong performance, with a weekly increase of 14,3% and a monthly rise of 7,5%. This price hike is directly linked to a significant decline in carrot production, which has dropped by 21,5% since January, according to Absa. With limited availability, prices are expected to continue rising until April.
Onion prices have also increased, with a monthly rise of 18%, bringing the average price to R4 787 per tonne. This price increase comes despite a 12% rise in stock levels. Analysts anticipate that, with the Western Cape harvest season peaking in February, prices will remain high through March before potentially stabilising slightly.
Potato prices rose by 7,3% by the end of February, despite a 5,8% increase in available volumes. Strong demand for potatoes has driven the average price to R6 689 per tonne. Prices are expected to decline slightly by April as larger production areas reach their peak harvest periods.
The average price of tomatoes reached R13 128 per tonne by the end of February, marking a 31,3% week-on-week increase due to a reduction in available volumes. However, prices were 4,6% lower on a month-to-month basis. Analysts anticipate moderate price increases in March as consumer demand rises.
Absa advises that, with several vegetable varieties experiencing price increases due to low availability, consumers should expect higher prices in the coming months. Farmers and distributors will need to adapt to the shifting supply and demand to achieve the best possible outcomes for their businesses.
