In Pakistan, thus far, arrivals of imported vegetables have failed to bring any relief as prices of tomato and onion hit new peaks of Rs200 and Rs80 per kg respectively. Consumers are already paying Rs600 per kg for imported ginger, with some retailers demanding Rs700 for top quality goods.
Retailers said suspension in arrival of Iranian tomato and onion and Afghan onion over the last week has led to further price hikes.
Consumers are of the opinion that they cannot expect any price reliefs when regulators are increasing the rates so frequently, instead of checking whether the prices have been jacked up artificially, The quality, taste, colour and overall appearance of imported tomatoes and onions are different as compared to the locally produced ones.
People were seen limiting their tomato buying as per their requirement since not many can afford Rs200 per kg.
Falahi Anjuman Wholesale Vegetable Market President Haji Shahjehan said tomato and onion prices had also risen in Lahore with almost the same rate as Karachi.
[ RS100 = € 0.52 ]
Source: dawn.com