Fruits by Type. Average Retail Prices in Russia, Monthly

The chart below displays average monthly retail prices for fruits by type (apples, pears, bananas, grapes, oranges and lemons) in Russia in RUB/kg.

As shown in the chart, retail fruit prices in Russia exhibit strong seasonality. Each product category follows its own price cycle, driven by harvest schedules in supplying countries (Russia is one of the world’s largest fruit importers) as well as domestic harvest seasons.

Certain categories, such as bananas and citrus fruits, are virtually not grown in Russia. However, during the summer months, they are partially substituted by seasonal domestic fruits and berries, which are primarily harvested between June and October.

The market also experiences occasional anomalous price fluctuations. For instance, a sharp spike in lemon prices was recorded in April 2020, with prices peaking at a record 349.7 RUB/kg. Despite general inflation, this historic high has not been surpassed even as of 2026. This surge in demand and subsequent price spike for lemons were triggered by the onset of the COVID-19 lockdown and the widespread belief in their immune-boosting properties. Garlic and ginger experienced similar record-breaking price increases during that period for the same reasons.