Frost Disaster to Drive Food Prices Even Higher in Turkey: Summer Fruits at Risk
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Already burdened with persistently high food inflation, Turkey now faces an additional blow: a nationwide agricultural frost disaster has severely damaged many crops, threatening to push food prices even higher in the coming months, according to economists.
Summer fruits face massive price hikes
The frost has particularly affected cherries, apricots, figs, almonds, grapes, and plums, leading to significant yield losses. Experts warn these fruits could become scarce or even absent from market shelves — while prices may skyrocket due to reduced supply.
Economist Nazlı Sarp commented: “This situation will create a domino effect, impacting not only farmers but also transportation and retail, ultimately hitting consumers with sharp price increases.”
Artichokes already selling at 75 TL per kilo
The price impact is already visible. For example, artichokes are being sold for up to 75 Turkish Lira (approx. $2.30) per kilo, indicating how quickly costs are rising.
Economists say this is not just about crop damage. Logistics and storage disruptions caused by the frost will further inflate prices across the supply chain.
Rising transport costs worsen the crisis
The frost has disrupted transport routes and cold-chain logistics, raising fears of cascading inflation in markets and supermarkets.
Experts believe food inflation will accelerate in the short term, making it increasingly difficult for low-income households to access even basic produce.