Chapter 4 – Vegetable market dynamics
The informal market has been widely established as a key demand pool for fruit and vegetables. Here, access to social grants underpins a notable share of this demand. The graph below shows that prices for potatoes were under pressure during and after the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress grant was suspended for two months (April and May) in 2022. This grant has been extended to March 2025. The nature and quantum with which it will be implemented beyond that will likely have an effect on local vegetable market dynamics.
During 2022, potato prices came under pressure due to the suspension of the SRDG. This grant supports a notable demand pool of low-income consumers who purchase vegetables.
Figure 4
Source: Absa AgriBusiness, 2024
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