Mexico Food Prices Rise as Fuel and Fertiliser Costs Increase

At the Mercado de Abastos in Nuevo Leon, prices for tomatoes, potatoes, beef and chillies have increased in the past few weeks. Customers say they are buying smaller quantities and vendors report cutting profit margins to retain sales. Cesar Ramirez, a 66-year-old retiree, said daily staples must still be purchased despite higher costs.

Guillermina Delgado, a 62-year-old housewife, stated she now buys only what is strictly necessary each week.

Elvira Pasillas, professor at ITESO, said low-income households spend nearly 70 percent of earnings on food. 45 percent over 12 months, according to INEGI. U.S. Shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have raised global fuel and fertiliser prices, increasing logistics costs for Mexican producers.

5 percent in January. He attributed part of the increase to the end of tariff exemptions on imports from Brazil and Argentina, a screwworm outbreak, and roadblocks by criminal groups or protesters. Juan Carlos Anaya of Agricultural Market Consulting Group noted that extortion and robberies raise transport costs.

Cuauhtemoc Rivera, president of ANPEC, said extortion affects every stage of the supply chain. Tomato prices have risen from 20 pesos to as much as 75 pesos per kilogram. , where a 17 percent tariff took effect last year. 8 percent in March, according to government data.