Tomato and potato prices climb as supply tightens on SA fresh produce markets
South African fresh produce markets recorded sharp price movements this week as seasonal supply changes, weather disruptions and stronger month-end demand affected several major commodities.
According to the latest GroundRules market update from Agricultural Market Trends (AMT), tomatoes and potatoes were among the strongest movers, while onion prices remain exceptionally high despite signs that supply conditions may be starting to improve. Agricultural economist Conce Moraba said the next two weeks could remain supportive for prices as demand improves while supply stays constrained.
Tomatoes jump 38%
Tomato prices increased by 38% to an average of R8.50/kg, while market volumes fell by 19%. The increase is linked largely to the seasonal transition between winter and summer production regions, which can temporarily reduce availability. Stronger month-end demand could keep prices supported in the short term, although this could change quickly if supply improves. For growers, the current market highlights the importance of timing. Seasonal gaps can create attractive pricing opportunities, but fresh produce markets remain highly sensitive to relatively small shifts in volumes.
Potato supply remains tight
Potato prices also strengthened sharply, with the average market price reaching R67.19 per 10kg bag. Sifra potatoes averaged about R64 per 10kg, while Class 1 Large Mondials reached R80 and Medium Mondials around R71. South Africa is currently between major production regions, reducing volumes reaching fresh produce markets. Supply was sufficiently tight for the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market to sell out early on Monday. Further rainfall in Limpopo could also disrupt harvesting and transport, while stronger month-end buying may continue supporting prices over the coming weeks.
Onion shortage may be easing
Onions remain one of the most unusual markets. Average prices eased slightly to R153.26 per 10kg, but were still 264% higher than at the same time last year. The shortage followed wet conditions that disrupted planting schedules and contributed to a 34% year-on-year decline in supply. AMT indicated that the shortage may now be approaching a turning point. If market volumes recover strongly, onion prices could fall relatively quickly from current levels.
Fruit prices show mixed movement
Banana prices declined by 15% to R9.50/kg following an increase in supply, although volumes are expected to tighten again before year-end. Apple prices averaged R10.47/kg and pears R9.46/kg, with both categories maintaining firmer trends heading towards the festive period. Orange prices remained weak at R2.39/kg and were 53% lower than a year earlier, reflecting high domestic availability and challenges around export-quality fruit. However, weekly orange volumes declined by 20%, which could provide some support to prices if supply continues tightening.
Why this matters for South African producers
The latest market movements show how quickly fresh produce prices can change when seasonal supply gaps coincide with stronger demand. For growers, short-term price spikes can improve returns, but they also underline the difficulty of planning production around highly volatile markets. Tomatoes and potatoes currently benefit from restricted supply, while the onion market demonstrates the opposite risk: very high prices can quickly come under pressure once delayed production reaches the market. For producers supplying fresh produce markets, monitoring regional production cycles, weather conditions and incoming volumes remains critical to understanding when stronger prices are likely to hold — and when they may reverse.