As the Iranian New Year (Nowruz) approaches on March 21, the price gap between fruits and vegetables sold in municipal fruit and vegetable markets and those in retail shops across cities has significantly widened.
While these products are offered at more affordable rates in municipal markets, they are sometimes priced up to twice as much in retail shops.
The state-affiliated Borna news agency, reporting on price conditions, states that greenhouse cucumbers are sold at 430,000 rials per kilogram in municipal markets, whereas in city shops, the same quality and weight are priced at 750,000 rials. The exchange rate of the U.S. dollar is currently around 890,000 rials.
Sharp Rise in Food Prices in Iran, Statistics Center Reports
Additionally, Persian limes are priced at 640,000 rials per kilogram in municipal markets but cost 1.44 million rials in the open market.
This price discrepancy is evident in other products as well. For instance, lettuce costs 240,000 rials per kilogram in municipal markets but reaches 900,000 rials in shops.
This price difference reflects a lack of adequate oversight of the supply and distribution chain. According to reports, the presence of multiple intermediaries in the distribution process adds extra costs, driving up the final price for consumers.
Moreover, the lack of price transparency and the failure to display official price tags in city shops have led to retailers in different areas charging varying prices for the same products.
The report further emphasizes that to address this issue, responsible authorities must implement continuous and stricter oversight. Proposed solutions include expanding chain stores, establishing online price-monitoring platforms, and supporting producers in selling their products directly to consumers.
Otherwise, consumers will be forced to buy fruits and vegetables at exorbitant prices, despite the possibility of fairer pricing.
Earlier reports from various Iranian media outlets indicated that the sharp rise in prices and declining purchasing power had led to the introduction of “installment-based purchases” for essential goods on Yalda Night (the Iranian winter solstice festival). Some reports noted that households from lower-income groups had either simplified their celebrations or entirely omitted them.
The Eghtesad 100 website reported that poor economic conditions have left many families unable to afford fruits and festive snacks for the holidays.
