Eggplant Prices Explained

Eggplant prices soared in various countries as the demand for this commodity continuously increased due to the need for various cuisines, the rising awareness of its health benefits, and the growing preference for organic and home-grown vegetables.

For instance, the United Kingdom recorded a 7.1% eggplant price increase in the second quarter of this year. Additionally, Spain scored $1,834 per ton, the highest price in the country. Furthermore, Belgium posted a notable growth of 1.7%. Presently, China is the biggest producer of eggplant with an average of 30 million metric tons per year. India, Egypt, and Iran followed distantly. 

Why are eggplant prices fluctuating?

1. Quality and Variety

Generally, eggplant availability and prices vary in terms of size, shape, color, taste, and shelf life. For instance, the wholesale price of Australian eggplant in the last quarter of 2023 fluctuated between US$ 2.72 and US$ 5.43 per kilogram due to producer prices, consumer preferences, and market conditions.

Additionally, growers that implement sustainable farming methods such as organic farming, enhanced seed use, and appropriate harvesting and packing procedures raise the market price of eggplant by producing premium-quality produce.

2. Consumer Preference

Demand for eggplant comes from several variables like tradition, population expansion, economic levels, and consumer preferences. Moreover, its broad application in numerous meals and cuisines, eggplant is still in high demand in India, a major producer and consumer of the vegetable. However, the common need will likely change in reaction to seasonal changes, holidays, and festivals. Thus, affecting eggplant prices.

3. Trade Policies

Exchange rates, shipping costs, tariffs, quotas, and subsidies take hold of eggplant prices too. Throughout the last five years, the import price of eggplant consistently showed a shifting pattern in Australia (a major importer), ranging from $2.44 to $4.62 per kilogram. Overall, these variations most likely reflect changes in the dynamics of supply and demand throughout the world as well as in trade agreements and policies between Australia and its trading partners.

Which variables impact the price of eggplant?

• Quality and Variety
• Consumer Preference
• Trade Policies
• Transportation and Distribution Costs
• Production Costs

Where does eggplant come from?

Eggplant is a member of the nightshade family. Additionally, it is recognized for its shiny, deep purple skin, and soft flesh. Furthermore, it comes in several forms, each with unique qualities. Some common varieties of eggplant include:

1. Globe Eggplant – The largest and plumpest variety is perfect for slicing and grilling because of its substantial and meaty texture.

2. White Eggplant – Compared to the classic purple eggplant, this kind has a milder flavor and is popular for its cream or white appearance.

3. Italian Eggplant – Usually shaped like a teardrop, this large and dark purple kind is slightly smaller than globe eggplant. Also, its flavor is sweeter than globe eggplant.

4. Japanese Eggplant – This longer and thinner eggplant isn’t restricted to Japan or Japanese cuisine. Additionally, its slim shape makes it particularly good for stir-frying in big chunks.

5. Rosa Bianca Eggplant – This variety has beautiful purple and white stripes on its skin and it becomes bland when cooked.

6. Chinese Eggplant – It has a long and thin body with white meat and light to mid-toned purple outer skin. Also, it tastes less bitter and has fewer seeds than the popular globe eggplant type.

7. Fairy Tale Eggplant – has a striking purple-and-white striped skin that combines with its delicate and sweet flesh.

What are the uses of eggplant?

Eggplant is a wholesome part of a diet that is well-balanced since it is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.

Compared to other crops, eggplant is primarily grown for its culinary qualities and is an essential component of many different international cuisines. However, their industrial applications are quite limited.

1. Food Processing – Eggplant is used in industrial food processing facilities to make spreads, dips, sauces, and other processed foods. Adding eggplant to fried food gives it a unique flavor profile.

2. Natural Dyes – While not as common as other natural dyes, some traditional techniques use eggplant extracts to color textiles.

3. Phytochemical Extraction – Eggplant contains several phytochemicals like bioactive substances and antioxidants. These beneficial characteristics find use in the cosmetics or pharmaceutical industries.

4. Agricultural Uses – Parts of eggplants that are leftover such as stems and leaves have potential uses in agriculture. Additionally, these leftovers are used as organic material to increase soil fertility.

What is the future price of eggplant?

The food industry’s expansion and growing consumer demand have primarily driven the eggplant market’s steady growth in recent years. The increasing adoption of organic farming supported by the rising home gardening practices creates a huge market for organic eggplant, particularly in the local market as vegetable international trading becomes expensive and unreliable due to geopolitical and weather issues. 

Also, the growing acceptance of plant-based diets and consumers’ preference for wide healthful food options are predicted to drive additional growth and opportunities. Rich in potassium, copper, magnesium, manganese, and antioxidants, eggplant is expected to make a substantial contribution to the food and medical industries.

Moreover, the utilization of eggplant powder in the food processing industry provides another opportunity in the market as this commodity is a good alternative to starch and flour. Additionally, its moisture content of 7%-10% makes it a sustainable ingredient, lasting for 2 years. Overall, the price of eggplant will be $2.22 per kilogram in 2028, with an expected  CAGR of 7.19% in the same year.