Vegetable prices surge in Kathmandu Valley amidst increased production costs

KATHMANDU: Due to the recent sharp rise in vegetable prices in the Kathmandu Valley, many Nepalis are consuming fewer veggies. There is always a season for vegetables, but due to damage from heat waves and severe rains, production costs have increased significantly. The Kalimati wholesale market pricing index indicates that there have been considerable increases in the cost of tomatoes, potatoes, onions, and other vegetables over the past two weeks.

The cost of tomatoes has increased dramatically: tiny local tomatoes have risen 101.52% to Rs 45 per kg, huge Nepali tomatoes have increased 26.67% to Rs 95 per kg, and little tunnel tomatoes have increased 92.13% to Rs 61 per kg. Red Indian potatoes have increased 3.64% to Rs 57 per kg, and red Mudhe potatoes have increased 15.69% to Rs 59 per kg. Potato prices have also increased. Similar price increases have been observed for various gourds, dried onions, cabbage, and cauliflower.

The rising vegetable prices are attributed to increased production costs and the impact of rising Indian onion prices. Wholesale prices for various vegetables have increased significantly within two weeks, with some prices more than doubling. The Nepal Rastra Bank reports a 16.02% increase in vegetable inflation compared to last year, contributing to decreased vegetable consumption among Nepalis.

According to a recent Global Food Policy Report, adults in Nepal consume far less fruit and vegetables per day than the World Health Organization recommends. According to the survey, there is an increasing tendency toward unhealthy packaged goods, with a substantial section of the populace turning to fried and salty snacks. It draws attention to how expensive nutrient-dense diets are in South Asia in comparison to starchy staples and snacks.

The paper also warns that it could be difficult for many nations, especially those in South Asia, to consume the recommended daily allowance of fruits and vegetables set by the WHO in 2050. This pattern indicates a move away from the affordability and consumption of nutrient-rich veggies and toward a rise in processed food consumption.