Indore: Tomato prices have crossed Rs 80 per kilogram in Indore, with traders warning that rates may increase further due to supply shortages and strong demand from other states.
According to traders, local tomato supplies from Madhya Pradesh have nearly ended, while arrivals from neighbouring states are also declining. Maharashtra is currently the main source of tomatoes for the city and other parts of the state.
Premium-quality tomatoes are selling at Rs 70-80 per kg in retail markets, while wholesale rates have reached Rs 50-60 per kg. Lower-grade produce is available at slightly lower prices but remains in limited supply.
Market experts attribute the surge to extreme summer heat, which affected production in key growing regions. Farmers in many areas have already completed harvesting and are preparing for the next crop cycle. Reduced arrivals from neighbouring states have further tightened supplies.
Traders said tomato prices could remain high until fresh crops begin arriving later in the season. The upcoming monsoon may also push prices higher because of transportation challenges and spoilage during transit.
The rise is not limited to tomatoes. Prices of several vegetables, including capsicum, ridge gourd and green chilli, have also increased due to lower arrivals and reduced supply across wholesale markets.
