Lime prices hit 80 baht per kg amid drought

2026-03-04 - 08:13

YALA — 4 March 2026, Prolonged hot weather lasting more than one month in Yala has begun to directly affect agricultural prices, with limes seeing a significant surge as drought conditions reduce supply to markets. A survey at Muang Mai Market in Yala found that lime prices have risen sharply. Sareepah Samae, a lime vendor from Yupo subdistrict, said prices had increased from 20 to 30 baht per kilogram to 80 baht per kilogram for large limes. Smaller limes are now selling for 50 to 60 baht per kilogram. She said the problem occurs every year during the dry season. The shop purchases produce directly from local farmers in sacks weighing 20 kilogrammes each. Current costs stand at about 350 baht per 10 kilogrammes, prompting vendors to repackage the fruit into smaller bags priced at 20 baht and 40 to 50 baht to suit customers’ spending power. If the area continues to experience no rainfall and extreme heat persists, prices are expected to rise further next month. However, consumers are still visiting the market to buy limes as usual despite the higher prices.