The drought in the Pčinj district has caused agricultural yields to drop by 10 to 50%, impacting both the quality and prices of produce. Producers are bracing for higher prices, while consumers are strategizing to minimize winter preparation costs.
Dejan Ivanović from Moštanica near Vranje reports that sun damage has affected about 10% of his outdoor peppers. Although he is harvesting healthy fruits and has not raised prices yet, he notes that the yield is slightly lower and the product’s appearance has changed.
Danijela Stanimirović, a professor at the Secondary Veterinary and Agricultural School in Vranje, highlights the difficulties farmers face due to large temperature fluctuations, which compromise product quality and availability. These issues are expected to lead to price increases for fruits and vegetables by autumn.
With the anticipated rise in prices, consumer demand is expected to decrease, potentially leading to both fewer preserved goods in households and financial losses for producers. Currently, consumers have reported a price increase of about one third, but many are still preparing their winter supplies.
Sellers have yet to begin selling larger quantities of vegetables, and average household expenses for a modest winter stock are estimated between 10,000 to 15,000 dinars. Additionally, manufacturers are forecasting a 10 to 15 percent increase in the price of traditional and industrial winter coats.
