By Motsamai Tjakata, Agricultural Economist
As winter deepens across Lesotho, vegetable prices continue to climb, straining household budgets and challenging local retailers. The combination of cold weather, limited local production, and rising import costs is driving up prices for key staples, with tomatoes and green peppers remaining particularly scarce and expensive.
What’s Driving the Price Increases?
• Reduced Local Supply: Cold temperatures have curtailed local vegetable production, increasing reliance on imports.
• Inflationary Pressures: Overall inflation remains elevated, with food prices being a significant contributor.
• Rising Import Costs: Increased transportation expenses and currency fluctuations are adding to the cost of imported vegetables.
Lesotho: Price Changes in the Past Two Weeks
Vegetable Price (per kg) Change (%)
Tomatoes M20.00 +8%
Green Peppers M18.50 +10%
Potatoes M6.50 +5%
Onions M7.00 +6%
Cabbage M4.00 -5%
Source: Lesotho Tribune, local market checks, Author estimates
South African Market Prices
Prices across the border remain more stable, but exchange rates still matter:
• Cabbage: R3.00/kg (down 5%)
• Potatoes: R50.73/10kg (down 5%)
• Onions: R65.00/10kg (up 6%)
• Tomatoes: R14.00/kg (up 10%)
Source: Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market
What This Means
• Limited Local Production: Cold weather restricts what farmers can grow, leading to decreased local supply.
• Higher Import Costs: Imported vegetables are more expensive due to rising transport costs and currency fluctuations.
• Climate Challenges: Less rain and extreme weather conditions are making farming more difficult.
• Inflation Impact: Rising food prices are contributing to overall inflation, affecting the cost of living.
What You Can Do
For Farmers:
• Focus on cold-resistant crops like cabbage, carrots, spinach, and beetroot.
• Consider season extension techniques such as tunnels or greenhouses to prolong growing periods.
For Retailers:
• Source stock from South Africa when local supplies are low.
• Plan ahead for high-demand items like tomatoes and peppers, which are expected to remain expensive.
For Shoppers:
• Opt for more affordable vegetables currently in season, such as cabbage, spinach, and beetroot.
• Be prepared for continued price increases on tomatoes, green peppers, and carrots in the near term.
Looking Ahead: Mid-July Forecast
• Tomatoes may rise by another 8–12% if import levels remain low.
• Green Peppers could increase by a further 10%.
• Potatoes and Onions might stabilize or fall slightly if more stock arrives from South Africa.
The next Market Report will be released on 18 July 2025.
