Tomato Prices Surge in Israel Amidst Retail Competition and Seasonal Shortages

Tomato prices in Israel have experienced significant fluctuations in recent weeks, with a wide disparity observed across different supermarket chains. While some stores offer tomatoes for as low as 1 shekel per kilogram as part of promotional sales, others are charging prices nearing 20 shekels. A survey conducted on September 23 revealed that "Shufersal Express" in Tel Aviv was selling tomatoes for 18.90 shekels per kilogram, with other branches of the chain pricing them at 17.90 or 9.90 shekels. "Super Yuda" via the Wolt delivery service had the highest price at 19.90 shekels, while "Yarkanit" and some "Super Yuda" branches were selling them for 16.90 shekels.

Farmers attribute the recent price increases, which have seen wholesale prices approach 10 shekels per kilogram, to the end of the growing season and an exceptionally hot summer. This has resulted in a shortage of quality tomatoes, with only late-season yields available. The article notes that import levels from Turkey and Jordan have been minimal due to similar weather conditions abroad. Despite the rising wholesale costs, many supermarket chains are currently running pre-holiday sales, offering tomatoes at significantly reduced prices, sometimes as low as 1 shekel per kilogram with certain purchase conditions, to remain competitive. For instance, "Victory" and "Victory Plus" offer tomatoes for 1 shekel with a minimum purchase of 100 shekels, valid until October 3. Other chains like "Rami Levy" and "Shufersal Deal" also have promotional prices, though with varying conditions and end dates.

Producers indicate that the low prices during the summer, averaging around 5.50 shekels per kilogram compared to 5.84 shekels last year, were difficult for them, with wholesale prices sometimes dropping to 3 shekels. They acknowledge that the current wholesale price increase is substantial but credit the retail chains for not fully passing on these costs to consumers during the holiday period. However, they warn that consumers should be prepared for further price hikes if this competitive pricing by retailers ceases. The article also mentions that the government provided some support to producers in the "Otef Azza" region after October 7, ensuring adequate labor and water supply, thus attributing the current shortages primarily to weather conditions.

Beyond tomatoes, shortages are also reported for eggplants, potatoes, and onions, contrasting with last year's surpluses. Conversely, sweet potatoes and broccoli are currently abundant and selling cheaply. The deficit in tomatoes is expected to resolve in about a month with the arrival of the Aravah region's harvest.