Central Mexico
By Eric Anderson
5.13.13
Mexican fruit and vegetable dealers have reported that the price per kilo of tomatoes may rise by 100% in the coming weeks, as rains in Cuautla, Morelos and neighboring tomato-producing regions pick up.
Prices per kilo are expected to hit 20 pesos in the coming weeks, as rains bog down production and reduce the available supply, according to El Mundo de Orizaba. Tomatoes are currently considered to be the most volatile fresh produce commodity in terms of price and supply concerns. Trader Luis Enrique notes the product’s instability in the market; pricing fluctuates day to day.
"When it starts to rain, the fields are flooded and people cannot go to work. Production costs increase as machinery consumes more diesel," said Enrique.
Prices per kilo have already risen by four pesos in the past week, from six to ten pesos; however, as greenhouse tomatoes hit the market, they may help stabilize prices.
Tomato Report
