Onion Prices Surge to Rs 70 Across Gujarat

AHMEDABAD : The humble onion is becoming an expensive kitchen staple in Gujarat, with retail prices rising from Rs 35-40 to Rs 60-70 per kg in just 15 days. Traders warn that prices could climb another Rs 15-20 as rain-hit supplies from major producing states remain disrupted.

Onions arriving from Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh have declined sharply after rains affected stocks and quality. Ahmedabad traders said wholesale prices have increased by Rs 10-15 in a week, forcing retailers to sell onions at around Rs 40-50 per kg before other costs.

“Farmers lost around 25 per cent of their stock in the fields due to quality issues, while another 25 per cent had to be removed immediately. Only the remaining stock is reaching markets,” said Amarjeet, an Ahmedabad APMC trader.

Another trader, Anvarbhai, said supply shortages were becoming severe. “If a trader orders two 12-tonne vehicles, only one may arrive. Those ordering four vehicles are receiving supplies equivalent to just two,” he said.

The impact is also visible in Rajkot and Surat. In Rajkot, the price of an onion maund has reportedly doubled from around Rs 500 to Rs 1,000. In Surat, wholesale prices of good-quality onions have risen to Rs 800-1,000 per 20 kg.

Babu Sheikh, a Surat APMC wholesaler, said prices would remain elevated until fresh arrivals begin. “Only the arrival of the new crop can bring prices under control,” he said.

Traders expect the shortage to persist for another one to three months. Consumers, meanwhile, are cutting purchases as household budgets come under pressure.

“Onions and potatoes are daily necessities. At Rs 60-65 a kg, the increase has badly affected the household budget,” said Vadodara consumer Kishan Singh.