Mexico says tomato prices ease after national supply deal

Mexico’s Agriculture Ministry says tomato prices are starting to stabilise after a national agreement was signed to improve supply and reduce pressure on household food spending.

The agreement, signed on 3 June, brings together producers from 18 states, wholesale markets, distributors, commercial operators and supermarket chains. Its goal is to coordinate production, distribution and sales for jitomate, one of Mexico’s key basic food products.

According to the ministry, the national average price fell by almost 10 pesos/kg (US$0.58/kg) over three weeks, dropping from 57.22 pesos/kg (US$3.31/kg) to 47.68 pesos/kg (US$2.76/kg). That represents a decrease of around 17%.

Wholesale markets remain the most competitive sales channel, while prices continue to vary depending on the outlet and region.

For the tomato chain, the measure is intended to bring more order to supply planning, commercial distribution and consumer-price monitoring, while keeping domestic availability stable.

source and photo: gob.mx