Cherries at record prices in Uzbekistan: spring has started early in the domestic market

The 2025 fruit season in Uzbekistan began much earlier than expected — the first wholesale batches of cherries appeared in the country’s markets at least a week earlier compared to recent years. This was reported by EastFruit analysts.

According to experts, in the current season, the average wholesale price for freshly harvested cherries as of May 23 stands at 17,000 Uzbek soms per kilogram ($1.32). This is about 70 percent higher compared to the same period last year. For comparison, in 2023 and 2021, the first batches appeared at the end of May, with prices at 8,000 and 10,000 soms per kilogram, respectively.

Why are prices so high?

According to market participants, this year’s cherry harvest volume is expected to be about the same as in previous years, meaning it is not very large. Meanwhile, domestic demand for the product remains steadily high. However, the main reason for the record prices is attributed to increased demand for Uzbek cherries on foreign markets, especially in countries such as Russia and Belarus.

Interest from Serbia as well

According to EastFruit sources, on May 19, a delegation of representatives from several leading Serbian companies visited Uzbekistan to hold negotiations with local cherry and apricot producers. This indicates a potential increase in demand for Uzbek fruits in the European market as well.

Weather and harvest timing

In spring 2024, weather anomalies were observed in the eastern regions of Uzbekistan, causing certain varieties of cherries to ripen early and the season to end quickly. A similar trend is expected this year for the cherry harvest.

The export potential of Uzbek fruits is growing year by year, while also increasing competition in the domestic market. Products like cherries and sweet cherries are in demand on foreign markets not only for their high price but also for their quality. This opens up new export opportunities for local farmers. If the season has already started with records, what comes next remains to be seen.