Uruguay tomato prices drop as agricultural aid arrives for storm-hit producers

Tomato prices in Uruguay have dropped significantly following a period of extreme volatility. After reaching peaks of up to 400 Uruguayan pesos per kilo due to climate-related supply shortages, prices in Montevideo markets have stabilized between 70 and 79 pesos per kilo. This price reduction has led to an immediate increase in consumer demand.

The previous price surge was caused by severe weather in the northern region, specifically in Salto, where heavy rains and hail destroyed numerous greenhouses. As harvests in the north recover, the supply has returned to normal levels.

In response to the agricultural damage caused by storms in July, the Uruguayan government has announced a support package for 306 affected producers in departments including Salto, Paysandú, Treinta y Tres, and Cerro Largo. The total aid package is valued at approximately 5,000,000 dollars. In the first stage, producers can receive up to 12,000 dollars each. A second stage allows for up to 40,000 dollars, contingent upon the reconstruction of productive structures and the provision of insurance policies.