Rising prices of vegetables across the country can be attributed to a combination of off-season shortages, high demand, and increasing production costs, as explained by Minister for Agriculture, Tomasi Tunabuna. The Minister highlighted that the prices of fresh vegetables have surged primarily due to a significant reduction in supply during this off-season period.
“Vegetable prices are very much dependent on demand and supply. When demand is high and supply is low, prices will increase, and that cost is passed on to consumers,” Tunabuna stated. He noted that seasonal factors particularly exacerbate the situation, especially around festive periods like Christmas and New Year when agricultural productivity is often constrained due to other commitments farmers may have.
While some farms are utilizing controlled environments and modern agricultural technologies to provide a consistent supply of vegetables throughout the year, the Minister pointed out that the high investment costs for these methods also contribute to elevated market prices. “Those who are producing in controlled environments have made significant investments, and because of high demand, vegetables at this time of the year normally come with a higher price,” he added.
In an effort to alleviate the financial pressure on consumers, particularly in urban areas, Tunabuna is encouraging households to engage in backyard gardening. He confirmed that the Ministry of Agriculture is providing resources and support to assist families in growing their own food, including provision for shade houses to navigate seasonal challenges effectively.
The Minister emphasized the importance of expanding backyard farming and adopting climate-smart agricultural technologies, which are crucial strategies to combat price surges during off-season periods and enhance food security for families. This initiative not only aims to support households in managing their food costs but also fosters greater self-sufficiency in local food production.