Market traders' sales are falling, while prices of seasonal fruit are up by almost 40%, hitting shoppers.

Despite rising fruit prices, traders are seeing a drop in sales compared to last year. Seasonal fruits, such as apricots and peaches, have seen significant increases, with prices up to 14 lei/kg for apricots and 10 lei/kg for peaches. Shoppers prefer to buy small quantities at markets, where they find prices more affordable. Annual inflation has reached 5.7% and traders fear further price hikes in the fall due to rising fuel prices and the removal of the energy cap.