Potato prices surge in Yangon market

The wholesale prices of Heho potatoes witnessed a significant surge this year in the Yangon market. On 13 and 14 June 2023, the prices per viss (approximately 3.6 pounds) reached K2,250 for A1 type, K2,550 for OK and S1 types, and K2,450 for S2 type.
Within a span of 15 days starting on 25 May 2023, potato prices escalated by around K600 per viss, depending on the types. Comparatively, the prices on 13 and 14 June 2023, rose by approximately K1,000 per viss in the Yangon market compared to the same period last year.
Despite record-high prices for onions and garlic in both 2022 and 2023, the cost of potatoes remained consistently high, as confirmed by Ko Aung, a regular customer.
While some large-sized potatoes are as big as a lemon, it is the OK and S1 types that are particularly sought after and command a higher price in the market. Unlike onions and garlic, which can be stored for months, potatoes require cold storage facilities, compelling dealers to sell them quickly in the market.
Brokerage houses carefully filter the potatoes, including Chinese varieties, before placing them for sale. Consequently, traders must exercise caution when purchasing potatoes, unlike onions. — TWA/CT