In attempt to bring down fruit and vegetable prices for Israeli consumers over the upcoming holidays, Agriculture Minister Uri Ariel said he has decided to remove customs restrictions on tomato and cucumber imports from around the world.
Ariel’s decision occurred after a string of summer heat waves caused fruits and vegetables to prematurely ripen, resulting in a sizeable decrease in the produce available, according to the minister’s office. The reduced supply has led to a rise in prices on supermarket shelves as a result.
“Unfortunately, as a result of the heat wave, a shortage of fruits and vegetables occurred, and prices are rising,” Ariel said. “This is the reality we are trying to prevent particularly on the eve of the holidays. Therefore, I instructed my ministry personnel to immediately facilitate the intensive import of fruits and vegetables from Jordan and other countries, in order to overcome the shortage and once again decrease prices, while ensuring that Israeli farmers and produce are not harmed.”
