The prices of some agricultural products, such as watermelons and tomatoes, are soaring. This is due to poor growth caused by the ongoing heatwave and an increase in demand, leading to price rises of several tens of percent compared to a year ago.
According to the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT) on the 3rd, the average retail price of watermelons was 33,337 won for one unit on the 1st. This is 17.6% more expensive compared to the previous year and 33.7% higher than a month ago. Compared to the average price over the past three years, excluding maximum and minimum prices from 2020 to last year, it has increased by 25%.
The retail price of tomatoes has also risen to 6,716 won per kilogram, which is an increase of 42.6% compared to last year, and 33.2% more expensive than the average price. Notably, this price is 69% higher compared to a month ago.
The retail price of a single cabbage is 6,114 won, which is 68% higher than the previous month. Compared to the previous year, it has risen by 11.2%, and compared to the average price, it has increased by 11.3%. It is 68% more expensive than a month ago.
The retail price of peaches (white peaches), a summer seasonal fruit, is 21,133 won for 10 pieces, representing a 25.1% increase compared to last year. It is 10.6% higher than the average price.
Among livestock products, the price of eggs has risen due to increased consumption. According to the Korea Institute for Animal Products Quality Evaluation, the average retail price for 30 eggs (special size) at the end of last month was 6,984 won, which is an increase of 7.9% compared to a year ago.