Tomato Prices Drop by Over 22% Amid Improved Supply and Favorable Weather

New Delhi: Tomato prices across India are witnessing a significant decline as mandi arrivals surge and weather conditions stabilize. The all-India average retail price of tomatoes dropped to ₹52.35 per kg on November 14, 2024, marking a 22.4% decrease from ₹67.50 per kg a month earlier, according to government data.

In Azadpur Mandi, one of the largest wholesale markets in the country, modal prices dropped by almost 50%, from ₹5,883 per quintal in October to ₹2,969 per quintal in November. Similar trends have been reported in benchmark markets like Pimpalgaon, Madanapalle, and Kolar, driven by increased arrivals from key tomato-producing regions.

India’s annual tomato production for 2023-24 is estimated at 213.20 lakh tonnes, a 4% increase from the previous year’s production of 204.25 lakh tonnes, as per the Department of Agriculture’s third advance estimate. Despite the crop being grown year-round, its highly perishable nature and susceptibility to weather disruptions make it prone to price volatility.

The recent price surge in October was attributed to excessive rains in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, major tomato-producing states, which disrupted supply. However, the current seasonal arrivals from states like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat have helped fill supply gaps, stabilizing prices across the country.

With the ongoing sowing season in October and November in major tomato-producing regions, coupled with a short cultivation duration and multiple harvest cycles, supply has steadily improved. Favorable weather has further supported both crop health and smooth supply chain operations, ensuring continuous availability in the market.

The decline in prices comes as a relief to consumers after months of elevated rates due to weather disruptions. Experts suggest that if current weather conditions persist and logistics remain uninterrupted, tomato prices are likely to remain stable, benefiting both consumers and traders.

This trend underscores the importance of weather resilience and efficient supply chain management in maintaining the affordability of essential commodities like tomatoes.