Greenhouse tomato prices have surged in Tajikistan over the past week. On major wholesale markets, the price of tomatoes has risen from 16 to 20 somoni per kilogram (around $1.45–$1.81). In supermarkets and local shops, prices have jumped to 30 somoni per kilogram (about $2.72).
According to experts, several factors are behind this price spike. Firstly, the domestic production of greenhouse tomatoes has decreased. The Ministry of Agriculture reports that 360 tonnes were harvested this year, compared to over 600 tonnes last year.
Secondly, there has been a notable drop in imports. Only 1,100 tonnes of tomatoes were imported so far in 2025, whereas in 2024, imports reached 6,500 tonnes.
Seasonal open-field tomatoes are expected to appear no sooner than in a month. Until then, prices are unlikely to decline. Experts predict prices will remain between 20–25 somoni per kilogram ($1.81–$2.27).
Looking at previous years, Tajikistan has experienced seasonal price fluctuations.
Tomato imports have increased significantly in recent years:
- 2023: 1,600 tonnes worth $1.87 million
- 2024: 6,500 tonnes worth $4.15 million
- 2025 (Q1): 1,100 tonnes worth $851,816
As of April 4, 430 hectares of land were sown with tomatoes, compared to more than 3,000 hectares during the same period in 2024. The country currently operates 997 greenhouses with a total area of 174 hectares, 63.1 hectares of which are dedicated to tomatoes.
Agronomist Bakhtiyor Khasanov expects prices to remain high over the next month:
"Lower production and restricted imports are creating a supply shortage. Until seasonal tomatoes enter the market, we are likely to see prices stay at $1.81 to $2.27 per kilo," he said.
Source: www.asiaplustj.info