In Finland, the price of domestic tomatoes has risen significantly because of challenging growing conditions this year, particularly due to a cold early winter and increased energy costs. Lassi Remes, acting director of the Finnish Association of Greenhouses, explained that in response to the high electricity prices, many growers have reduced their lighting. This has resulted in smaller tomato yields and lower production volumes than usual. As a consequence, shoppers can expect to see higher prices for tomatoes at the stores this March as fewer products are available.

Tomatoes in Finland typically see a price increase during the winter months due to lower supply. According to Remes, few tomato growers have fixed-rate electricity contracts, meaning they are particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in energy prices, making it difficult for them to maintain standard production levels. Liisa Eronen, the purchasing and sales manager responsible for vegetables at Kesko, confirmed that the increase in prices reflects the ongoing challenges faced by tomato producers this season.

As a result, consumers shopping at local supermarkets, such as the K-Citymarket in Lahti and the Prisma in Tampere, can expect to pay higher prices for domestic tomatoes, indicative of the broader economic pressures that food growers are facing due to energy costs. This situation highlights the interconnectedness of agricultural production and energy supply, particularly in a climate-sensitive sector like horticulture.