Vegetable prices at the Suva Municipal Market are experiencing considerable fluctuations during the current off-season, impacting both vendors and consumers who are grappling with rising costs and limited availability. Anaisi Naqera, a vegetable vendor, pointed out that the primary drivers of this price instability are the farmers, who set wholesale prices based on current supply and demand conditions.
As it stands, prices are notable: a 16-kilogram box of tomatoes is priced at $120, while lettuce costs $10 per kilogram. Interestingly, cucumber prices have decreased to $30 per bag, but carrots—which were priced at $50 a bag around Christmas—have surged to $60 this week, although they are anticipated to settle at $55 soon.
Naqera emphasized that the market’s primary suppliers are farmers of Chinese and Indian descent, who consistently harvest their crops despite market volatility. In contrast, many indigenous farmers tend to halt their production when prices fall. She mentioned that early morning negotiations among farmers also play a role in determining prices, as groups gather to agree on new pricing before selling to market middlemen.
Regular shopper Taina Tuinavitilevu expressed her discontent regarding the current prices, calling them “ridiculous” and noting that a $5 heap of tomatoes contains less than what consumers typically expect. She highlighted the need for middlemen to provide better quantities for these higher prices, given the off-season challenges.
Samisoni Sevakarua, a former farmer and market vendor, shed light on additional issues affecting supply, mentioning that recent natural disasters and flooding have exacerbated the situation, leading to price hikes. He urged consumers to remain patient, as prices usually stabilize after the New Year when the supply improves.
Despite the current challenges faced by both vendors and consumers, there is hope that once the seasonal production ramps up again, the vegetable market will find a balance that benefits all parties involved.