Vegetable market prices fluctuate in Lesotho and India

Vegetable markets in Lesotho and India are experiencing varying price fluctuations driven by supply conditions and logistics costs.

In Lesotho, retail prices for key commodities moved within narrow ranges between August 7 and 14, 2026. Tomato prices rose 3.8 percent to an estimated M14.85 per kilogram due to tighter quality supply from the Free State and Limpopo regions. Conversely, potato prices fell 6.2 percent to M9.90 per kilogram following high volumes from local and imported sources. Green peppers also saw a 2.6 percent increase.

In Chennai, India, the Koyambedu wholesale market reported a spike in vegetable prices over the first half of August. Traders attributed the increase to rising fuel prices, higher lorry freight charges, and increased labor and operational costs. Tomato prices saw a significant jump, with country tomatoes rising from Rs 12/kg to Rs 25/kg. Other notable increases included green peas, which rose from Rs 150 to Rs 180 per kilogram, and beans and Ooty carrots, which both increased by Rs 20 per kilogram.