Black Frost Drives 15% Hike in South African Potato Prices

South African potato prices surged by 15% due to black frost damage in Limpopo. This significant increase was highlighted by Potatoes SA, affecting regions like Nelspruit and Cape Town the most. Despite the potato price rise, South Africa saw a decline in consumer inflation to 4.6% in July, marking a three-year low.

South African potato prices have soared by an average of 15% this past week, following widespread crop damage from black frost in the key producing region of Limpopo, industry data revealed on Wednesday.

According to Potatoes SA, the average price of a 10 kg bag of potatoes climbed to 85.31 rand ($4.80) from 74.24 rand the previous week. The price hike is particularly pronounced in areas like Nelspruit and Cape Town, where a bag now costs almost 100 rand.

The price surge coincides with a broader decline in South Africa's food inflation, which fell to 3.9% in July, and an overall consumer inflation rate dropping to a three-year low of 4.6% year on year.

(With inputs from agencies.)