Despite the arrival of imported tomatoes from Iran, consumers across Karachi continue to face soaring prices, with retail rates climbing to as high as Rs. 500 per kilogram instead of easing as expected.
According to market reports, both Iranian and Quetta-grown tomatoes are being sold for Rs. 450 to Rs. 500 per kg, while a quarter kilogram (250 grams) costs between Rs. 110 and Rs. 125. Some vendors are offering smaller-sized and unripe tomatoes at around Rs. 400 per kg, but shoppers say even these remain too expensive for everyday use.
Traders say the recent imports from Iran have failed to stabilize prices because the volume entering the country is far below market demand. Industry estimates suggest that only around 10 containers of Iranian tomatoes are arriving daily, an amount insufficient to offset the ongoing supply shortage.
Market experts also point to quality concerns. Imported Iranian tomatoes reportedly suffer significant damage during transportation, with nearly 30 percent of the produce reaching Karachi in unsellable condition. Retailers also claim the imported tomatoes soften more quickly and differ in taste from locally grown varieties, making many traders reluctant to stock them.
The sharp rise has significantly reduced consumer buying, with many households purchasing only two or three tomatoes at a time. Earlier this month, tomatoes were selling for just over Rs. 300 per kg, compared with Rs. 120 to Rs. 160 in late June and around Rs. 80 to Rs. 100 per kg in April, highlighting the dramatic surge in prices within a few months.
Traders expect prices to remain elevated until fresh crops from Sindh begin reaching markets around mid-September, while current supplies from Balochistan remain insufficient to meet nationwide demand.
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