With the New Year approaching, more people are heading to markets and shopping centers across Azerbaijan, driving up demand for basic goods such as cooking oil, fruits, and vegetables.
However, shoppers say prices have risen sharply, while their purchasing power continues to weaken.
Buyers report that price increases are being recorded across almost all essential products.
“Today onions cost 40 qepiks, tomorrow they’re 50. Potatoes, onions – everything is going up. Before the holidays this has become routine, but this year the increase feels much stronger,” shoppers said.
Sellers, meanwhile, say that despite heavier foot traffic, actual sales volumes remain low.
“People are coming to the market, but buying less. Purchasing power is very weak. Often we are forced to sell goods in bulk at wholesale prices just to avoid losses,” vendors noted.
Among meat products, relatively steady demand has been observed for turkey, goose, and duck, although sellers say sales are still weaker compared to previous years.
Regions Remain Cheaper Than Baku, but Prices Are Rising There Too
Residents of regions such as Tovuz and Ismayilli say prices remain somewhat lower than in the capital, but overall increases are still clearly noticeable.
According to local shoppers, market prices have risen by 20–30 percent over the past week. Citrus fruits, pomegranates, bananas, fresh herbs, and other seasonal items are among the products that have seen the sharpest increases.
“A week ago something cost 2–3 manats; now it’s 4-5. The difference is obvious,” residents said.
A comparison of prices shows that beef in Baku sells for 17–19 manats per kilogram, while in the regions it typically ranges from 15–16 manats. Turkey meat can be up to 5 manats cheaper per kilogram outside the capital. Lamb, citrus fruits, and several other products are also offered at slightly lower prices in regional markets.
“Prices Keep Rising, Salaries Don’t”
Shoppers say the main concern is the growing gap between household incomes and rising costs.
“Everything is expensive – food, meat, fruits, holiday shopping. Salaries are low, but prices keep rising. Before the holidays, it’s felt even more sharply,” buyers said.
Market participants agree that the New Year season traditionally pushes prices higher, but this year the increases are being felt more strongly than usual – both in Baku and across the regions.
