"Prices Soar 300%... Beware of Thieves" India Struggles Amid Record-Breaking Heavy Rainfall

India, Tomato Prices Surge 341%
Theft Incidents Rise Due to Expensive Tomatoes

In India, the price of tomatoes has surged by more than 300%, causing social unrest including an increase in thefts.

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

According to the US economic broadcaster CNBC on the 13th (local time), the price of tomatoes in India was 108.92 rupees per kilogram (about 1,685 won) as of the 11th. This represents a 341% increase compared to the same period last year, placing a heavier burden on local consumers.

India is the world's second-largest tomato producer, and tomatoes, along with onions, are essential ingredients in the daily lives of Indians. In particular, masala, the most popular spice in India, uses tomatoes as a base ingredient for its sauce. Andhra Tomato Kura (tomato curry) is also a beloved dish among Indians.

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

However, as tomato prices have soared, large-scale theft incidents have occurred one after another. Recently, a farmer in India reported that thieves stole 150 kg of tomatoes.

In addition, a "tomato-free hamburger" has appeared in India. The McDonald's franchise in southwestern India explained in a statement that "this phenomenon is a seasonal issue."

The reason for the tomato price surge is flooding in major production areas such as Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. An Indian committee dedicated to agricultural research stated, "Excessive rainfall in these regions has significantly affected tomato crops," adding, "A considerable portion of tomato crops was destroyed due to rain and flooding."

Recently occurring tomato mosaic disease is also one of the factors reducing tomato harvests. This disease, caused by a virus, is characterized by many small spots on infected tomato leaves. Such diseases can lead to reductions in tomato size, quality, and yield.

[Image source=Pixabay]

Raika Rao, chief economist at DBS Bank, said that tomatoes, onions, and potatoes generally have high price volatility, but since they are essential items consumed by Indians, they face relatively inelastic demand.

Rao explained, "The supply of crops harvested in August is expected to help stabilize prices, but administrative measures including increased imports may be necessary before then."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.