Shoppers face rising prices as hidden threat drives record-high fruit costs: 'Domestic production … will trend downward in the long run'

Intense shifts in global temperatures have led to heat waves and droughts, melting ice caps, and changes in precipitation patterns. 

It's no surprise, then, that agriculture has also suffered, the warming planet having notable effects on international trade. 

As one recent example, Yonhap News Agency, via The Statesman, reported that poor harvests in South Korea stemming from climate change have pushed the country to increase its fresh fruit imports.

What's happening?

The cost of South Korea's imports of 12 types of fresh fruit rose by a shocking 20.1% from 2023 to 2024, for a total cost of $1.45 billion USD. Fruit imports to South Korea have reportedly never seen a price tag so steep, but as rising global temperatures lead to produce shortages, demands increase and, in turn, bills. 

The global fruit import value has an annual growth rate of 1.92%. Total imports of fresh and frozen fruits in South Korea are predicted to increase to 817,000 tons this year. 

"Imports of fruits are projected to rise further, as domestic production of fruits will trend downward in the long run given weather conditions and the constant fall in their cultivation area," an official from the Korea Rural Economic Institute told Yonhap (The Statesman).

Why are fruit shortages concerning?

Per the United States Environmental Protection Agency, "more than half the nation's land is used for agricultural production." But as weather, water, and natural resources are affected by rising temperatures, quality crop yields can plummet.

Fruits like bananas and oranges have seen significant declines in global production due to failed seasons and poor harvests. This hikes up prices on imports, with costs passed onto the consumer.

What's being done about price hikes on fruit?

The South Korean government has lowered tariffs on fruit imports to slow inflation rates, and they are not alone.

According to a 2015 policy brief from the United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research, other governments have taken steps to moderate food prices too, "through export restrictions, reduced import tariffs, removal of valueadded tax on food, and release of grain stock" as well as "compensating select groups of consumers" through various initiatives.

Do you worry about how much food you throw away? Definitely 😭 Sometimes 😢 Not really 😞 Never 🤷 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

In the U.S., the Department of Agriculture's Environmental Quality Incentives Program exists to provide assistance to agricultural producers in response to natural resource concerns. The USDA Climate Hubs also connect agricultural professionals with resources to help them adapt to impacts in their areas. 

Meanwhile, consumers can take action at home to help lower their own grocery bills. Purchasing local produce, meal planning prior to shopping, and reducing food waste can make a real difference.

Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.