North Macedonia currently has a large supply of pineapples imported from Costa Rica, over 10,500 km away. Retail prices range from 80 to 160 MKD per piece (€1.30–€2.60), making them up to seven times cheaper than domestic fruits. One pineapple costs less than a kilogram of peaches or tomatoes and is similar in price to onions or cucumbers, while remaining far cheaper than cashews (€3.25/kg).
"Oversupply pushes prices down, and suppliers need to clear storage. Tropical fruits aren't staples, so low prices are normal," explains Blazho Vitanov from Imperial Fruit.
Domestic fruits remain relatively expensive due to higher production costs and lower yields. Retail apples are currently 83–125 MKD/kg (€1.35–€2.03), pears up to 149 MKD (€2.42), and bananas 69–90 MKD (€1.12–€1.46).
In 2024, North Macedonia's orchards expanded by 3.1%, with cherry production up 41% compared to last year.
Source: www.slobodenpecat.mk