Persistent rain and limited sunshine are hurting cucumber production in parts of South Africa. As a result, supply is tightening and prices are rising.
Market reports show reduced output in summer rainfall regions. Growers struggle to maintain normal harvest levels during wet conditions.
However, demand across local markets remains strong. Consequently, prices continue to stay elevated.
Strong Demand Clears Available Stock
A market agent in Gauteng reported fast-moving stock. He explained that traders sell most available cucumbers quickly.
“We’ve got nothing left on the floor today, except for second grade,” the agent told Fresh Plaza.
Extra-large first-grade cucumbers sell between €12.30 and €12.77 per fifteen-box. That equals roughly R245 to R255 per box.
Large cucumbers sell between €11.35 and €11.82 per box. That translates to about R225 to R235.
Meanwhile, medium cucumbers sell for €10.00 to €10.45 per box. That equals roughly R200 to R210.
In KwaZulu-Natal, traders sell a bag of ten cucumbers for about €5.50. That equals roughly R110 at farm-gate prices.
Global Weather Problems Influence Prices
South Africa’s cucumber market reflects wider global trends. Weather disruptions continue to affect supply and pricing worldwide.
Earlier this season, Spain faced production challenges that pushed prices higher. However, prices eased when new northern European supply entered markets.
Meanwhile, North America also experienced supply pressure. A freeze in Florida reduced production significantly.
In addition, delayed planting in Georgia slowed supply recovery.
Despite mixed global conditions, South African demand remains strong. Therefore, traders say local markets absorb available cucumbers quickly.
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The post Check the reason: Why South Africa is running short of cucumbers appeared first on iHarare News.
