Japan sees September tomato and cucumber prices above normal

Japan expects tomato and cucumber prices to remain somewhat above their five-year average during the first half of September, while potatoes and onions are forecast below normal, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries’ September vegetable outlook.

Tomato production has been affected by low temperatures in June, weaker sunshine from late July into August and, in some areas, poor fruit set following sudden heat in mid-July. Supplies are therefore expected to remain slightly tight early in the month before returning closer to normal in the second half.

Cucumbers follow a similar pattern. Growth slowed in parts of Tohoku because of weak sunshine and cool mornings, although both arrivals and prices should normalise later in September.

Hokkaido potatoes and onions are developing well and tending toward larger sizes. Their market arrivals are forecast above average, putting prices below normal levels. Lettuce should also be relatively inexpensive as good conditions in Nagano support stronger supplies.

source and photo: maff.go.jp