Tomato Prices Rise to Rs. 500 per kg Despite Imports From Iran
Tomato prices have increased sharply in several cities across Pakistan, with retail rates reaching Rs. 500 per kilogram in parts of Lahore, Karachi, and other major urban centers. Market traders say limited imports from Iran have not been sufficient to significantly improve supply.
According to market sources, both locally produced tomatoes from Balochistan and imported tomatoes from Iran are being sold between Rs. 450 and Rs. 500 per kilogram. In many markets, a quarter kilogram (250 grams) is priced between Rs. 110 and Rs. 125, while smaller or less mature tomatoes are available at around Rs. 400 per kilogram.
Retailers report that higher prices have affected consumer purchasing patterns, with many buyers opting to purchase smaller quantities due to increased costs.
Tomato Prices Have Risen Over Recent Months
Tomato prices have shown a steady upward trend in recent months. During the third week of June, tomatoes were commonly available between Rs. 120 and Rs. 160 per kilogram. Earlier in April, prices ranged from Rs. 80 to Rs. 100 per kilogram before increasing further in the following months.
Limited Imports and Supply Challenges
Traders say imported tomatoes from Iran are arriving in limited quantities, with around 10 containers reaching local markets each day. According to market representatives, this volume remains below current demand.
Some importers have also reported quality-related challenges, stating that a portion of imported tomatoes may be damaged during transportation. Traders note that imported tomatoes may also have a shorter shelf life compared to locally grown produce, influencing purchasing decisions by retailers.
Currently, a significant share of market supply is coming from Balochistan, although traders believe production from the province alone is not enough to meet nationwide demand.
Possible Improvement Later in the Season
Market participants expect supply conditions to improve in the coming months. Tomato cultivation is underway in Sindh, with harvesting expected to begin by mid-September, which could help increase availability in local markets.
Vegetable Export Data
Separately, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported a decline in vegetable exports during FY2026. According to official data, Pakistan exported approximately 594,104 tonnes of vegetables valued at $163 million, compared with 1.448 million tonnes worth $367 million during FY2025.
The figures reflect changes in production, supply, and export volumes across Pakistan’s vegetable sector.
