Georgia continues to actively import Turkish tomatoes to cover the supply deficit. The imports of fresh tomatoes in November amounted to 1.360 tonnes. This is 3 times more than the average import volume and the highest figure in November in the last 7 years. Since Turkish tomatoes are cheap, local prices declined.
EastFruit analysts found that red tomatoes from Georgian greenhouses are sold 82% more expensive than red tomatoes imported from Turkey. However, a key factor in such a huge difference is that red tomatoes from Georgian greenhouses are positioned as high-quality and are aimed at wealthier buyers. Moreover, almost all greenhouses in Georgia grow pink tomatoes. They are available at a price 17% higher than Turkish ones.
According to EastFruit monitoring results, the average price of red tomatoes in the wholesale markets of Georgia amounted to $0.70 per kilogram last week. Due to competition from imports, the average price dropped for 3 weeks in a row. However, the price was 56% higher last week than the same period in 2020, but 8% lower compared to the same week in 2019. If this trend continues, 2021 prices will lag behind 2020 prices in a week or two.
Two weeks ago, the average price for pink tomatoes fell to $0.95, but has since increased slightly. They were offered at $1.11 last week, which is 6% higher than the same week of 2020 but 23% lower than 2019. Three weeks ago, these tomatoes were sold at $1.27 average, but prices fell below that mark. Sellers are trying to raise prices, but are acting cautiously.
Notably, fresh tomatoes from Turkey were imported at $0.32 per kilogram in November, which is a fairly low price. Whether imported tomato will remain cheap is unclear. The ongoing global energy crisis could lead to an increase in import prices.
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