KATHMANDU: There has been a slight relief in vegetable and fruit prices over in the last one month, with wholesale prices having come down slightly like retail prices.

“Prices of vegetables have gone down a bit but that doesn’t mean things have become less expensive,” said Maya Tuladhar, teacher. Tomatoes are at Rs 24 per kg as compared to Rs 36 just last month and are being retailed at Rs 35 per kilo while they sold at Rs 55 just a month ago.

Basic vegetables like cabbage are now priced at Rs 12. Earlier, it was being sold at Rs 25 per kg just 20 days ago. “The seasonal impact has been strong, and the prices have gone down. Another component is that the strength of arrivals is very good and has a good hold on the monitoring of prices recently,” said Binay Shrestha, Senior Planning Officer for Kalimati Fruit and Vegetable Association (KFVA).

A combined 600 to 700 metric tonnes of produce are arriving daily at the wholesale market of KFVA. The wastage also has been kept under check as per the weather conditions in the valley.

“The wholesale prices are being kept at the very minimum, but the prices at which certain items are being sold by retailers are alarming. The profit margin scooped in by retailers is way higher than the rate at what they procure their goods,” added Shrestha.

Fruits that are in season have also seen a decrease in prices. Apples were being sold at as much as Rs 95 per kg a month back but are now being sold at Rs 74. Oranges are being sold at anything between Rs 55 and Rs 60 per kg.

Though the impact seems to be seasonal, Shrestha assured that prices would remain stable as long as produce arrival is regular. KFVA, a few months ago set up their information board, which, is getting good response.