Watermelon Market Trends in North Macedonia
In the markets, large watermelons weighing up to 20 kilograms are available. However, farmers and sellers report that customers generally prefer smaller watermelons. This preference is primarily driven by price; smaller watermelons are more affordable, easier to carry, and consumers often want to enjoy them fresh on the same day of purchase, ensuring they do not lose quality.
Price Variations Across Regions
Prices fluctuate throughout Macedonia. For instance, at the market in Kumanovo, where we conducted our observations, watermelons are sold for 20 denars per kilogram. In contrast, melons are priced higher, ranging from 50 denars per kilogram and above. Farmers note that the quickest sales occur with watermelons weighing around 3 to 4 kilograms, while larger varieties, such as those weighing 17 or 20 kilograms, see less demand.
Customer Preferences
“Customers tend to buy smaller watermelons because they are easier to carry and more affordable. For prices ranging from 90 to 120 denars, people can purchase a watermelon. I expect to sell watermelons for another 10 days. The hot weather has made the watermelons ripen quickly. Melons, on the other hand, are more costly, priced at 50 denars per kilogram, and even higher in supermarkets,” says Adnan Nevzati, a local farmer.
Sales Dynamics
A farmer can sell between 100 to 150 watermelons daily, whereas the sales volume of melons is considerably lower.
“Producing watermelons is challenging. Hail can ruin the crop, and excessive sun exposure can be detrimental as well. Watermelons must be harvested and sold promptly; otherwise, they spoil,” adds Nevzati.
Market Demand and Supply
Another seller mentions that watermelons have always been in demand, while melons play a secondary role in the market. “If melons are scarce during the season, people look for them, but when there is an abundant supply like now, sales become difficult. Everyone prefers to buy smaller pieces to save money,” the trader explains.
Statistical Insights
According to data from the State Statistical Office, North Macedonia produced 438 tons of watermelons last year, a decrease from 806 tons in 2022. In terms of melons, production has significantly declined, with much smaller quantities reported since 2020. Census data from 2007 reveals that 3,342.80 hectares were dedicated to watermelon cultivation, compared to 545.26 hectares for melons.
— Sanja Atanasovska
