Lime prices increased by between 8 and 33 percent between 7 and 11 March, according to data from the National Information and Market Integration System of the Mexican Secretariat of Economy.
Because of this, the Federal Consumer Protection Agency (Profeco) has warned that there is no justification for the increase.
Limes with seed are sold for 22.90 pesos, with peaks of up to 27.90 pesos per kilo; while the seedless are sold for between 21.90 and 22.90 pesos per kilo, as reported by Profeco.
Through a statement, PROFECO announced that it would penalise distributors and dealers unable to provide a good reason for the price increase.
"In time of Lent and Easter, lime consumption increases, and some distributors take advantage of this to unjustifiably boost their prices. Given this, the Profeco reported that the number of controls would be increased to prevent abuses and, in the case of finding any, sanctions will be applied," reported the authority.
Inspections will also be carried out at the main distribution centres and wholesalers selling limes.
"The Profeco can impose sanctions on distributors and traders for not displaying prices and fail to provide documentary evidence about the origin or the cause for possible price variations," they explained.
The planting and cultivation of this Mexican citrus fruit takes place in 22 states, including Michoacan, with 41 percent of the total production, and Colima, with 37 percent.
Three out of every seven tonnes are harvested between April and August and only severe weather-related incidents can lead to supply shortages during the year.
"It is worth noting that, in 2014, given an unjustified increase in the price of limes, the Profeco filed a documentary record to the Attorney General of the Republic reporting crimes against the public economy by demonstrating an immoderate profit for producers, distributors and dealers."
