Wholesale vegetable prices at the Vashi APMC market in Navi Mumbai have moved sharply in opposite directions over the past 15 to 20 days, with lemon, tomato and coriander becoming more expensive while arrivals of several other vegetables pushed their rates down.
According to market information cited in the report, the wholesale price of lemons rose from Rs 25 per kg on August 20 to Rs 38 on September 1 and Rs 55 on September 7. This represents a 120% increase in about 15 days. Tomato prices increased from Rs 14 to Rs 22.50 per kg over the same period, a rise of 60.7%.
The wholesale price of coriander sourced from the Nashik region rose from Rs 6 to Rs 11 per kg, an increase of 83.3%. The report attributes the increases in lemon and tomato prices mainly to reduced arrivals from producing areas, including Nashik and Junnar, following rainfall. Coriander is also more vulnerable to spoilage during the monsoon, which has contributed to its price rise.
At the same time, higher arrivals of fresh vegetables have reduced the wholesale prices of several items. Brinjal prices fell from Rs 32 to Rs 17 per kg, a decline of 46.9%. Bottle gourd fell from Rs 21 to Rs 13, okra from Rs 35 to Rs 22 and French beans from Rs 45 to Rs 30 per kg. Cluster beans declined from Rs 60 to Rs 50 per kg. Carrot prices moved in the opposite direction, rising from Rs 20 to Rs 24 per kg.
The reduction in wholesale prices has not translated fully into lower retail prices, according to the report. Transport, handling and vendor expenses mean that retail rates are generally Rs 10 to Rs 20 higher than wholesale prices. Consumers may therefore see some relief in vegetables such as brinjal, okra and bottle gourd, while continuing to pay more for lemons, tomatoes and coriander.
The report said that favourable rainfall across much of Maharashtra, except Marathwada, has supported vegetable production and increased arrivals in the market. Rishi Doke said arrivals could increase further after Diwali, when supplies from Gujarat and local production areas are expected to reach the market in greater quantities.
Traders also claimed that the direct marketing system has reduced direct arrivals at the APMC market by 50% to 60%. Some produce from nearby villages is reportedly being sent directly to markets in Virar, Borivali, Dadar and other locations. Traders said this has affected the volume of transactions at Vashi APMC.
The report also linked market operations to the Navi Mumbai municipal corporation’s action against encroachments and unauthorised businesses. Traders said that when produce brought for sale is not sold at the appropriate location, the disruption affects the wider trading chain. Further changes in arrivals and wholesale rates will depend on rainfall, crop availability and the movement of produce through competing markets.
