Vegetable prices at the Suva Municipal Market are seeing significant fluctuations during this off-season, causing challenges for both vendors and consumers as they deal with increasing costs and limited product availability. Anaisi Naqera, a vendor at the market, attributes much of the price volatility to farmers who adjust wholesale rates based on supply and demand dynamics.
Currently, the prices reflect this instability: a 16-kilogram box of tomatoes is selling for $120, while lettuce is priced at $10 per kilogram. There are notable shifts in specific vegetable prices as well—cucumbers have decreased to $30 per bag, whereas carrots, which were priced at $50 during the Christmas season, have risen to $60 this week, although a slight decline to $55 is expected soon.
Naqera highlighted that a significant portion of market supplies comes from farmers of Chinese and Indian heritage, who continue to harvest despite fluctuating prices. Conversely, many indigenous farmers often reduce production when market prices drop. She noted that early morning negotiations among farmers significantly influence pricing, as they gather to discuss and set rates before selling to intermediaries.
Regular customer Taina Tuinavitilevu expressed frustration over the current pricing, describing them as “ridiculous.” She pointed out that a $5 heap of tomatoes doesn’t meet consumer expectations in terms of quantity. Tuinavitilevu emphasized the need for better quantity assurance from middlemen in light of the rising prices amid off-season difficulties.
Samisoni Sevakarua, a former farmer and current market vendor, shed light on external factors affecting supply, including recent natural disasters and flooding that have worsened the situation and contributed to rising prices. He encouraged consumers to exercise patience, as prices typically stabilize after the New Year with improved supply conditions.
Despite the current difficulties facing both vendors and consumers, there remains optimism that once seasonal production resumes, the vegetable market will stabilize, creating a more favorable environment for all involved.