North American tomato prices expected to remain high through October

Tomato prices in North America are expected to remain high through October due to limited supply and shifting crop cycles. According to Roger Riehm of Blue Creek Produce, supply is currently scattered across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with many regions currently between crops.

Weather conditions, including heat and rain in Mexico, have tightened availability. Additionally, traditional suppliers in Michigan and the Carolinas are in transition periods between harvests. While demand is currently average as retailers promote seasonal fall items, it is expected to increase toward the end of the month.

Several factors are contributing to the sustained strong pricing, including supply and demand economics and rising operational costs. Riehm noted that diesel fuel prices have increased by 60 percent compared to last year. A downward trend in pricing is not anticipated for October, though Florida production is expected to begin in November, weather permitting.