Fish prices increase at Al Wakra market

Due to the increasing demand and limited supply of fish at Al Wakra Fish market, the retail prices of most varieties have increased by almost 20-30% over the recent period.Speaking to local Arabic daily Arrayah, a number of fish sellers and customers agreed that this is normal during this period of the year due to the rising temperature. The weather conditions often make fishing boats reduce their fishing trips and the catch itself in various areas is very limited. Besides, the annual ban on using fishing nets to catch kingfish will be enforced during August 15 – October 15.The recent prices per kg at Al Wakra Fish were QR45 for kingfish, QR50 for hamour, QR28 for zubaidi, QR20 for Sultan Ibrahim, QR13 for sheri, and shrimp from QR40 to QR60 according to the type and size.Rashid al-Mansouri, a consumer, said that increase in fish prices is seasonal and within the acceptable limits. Khalifa al-Sayyid, a regular customer at the market, said he spent some time outside the country and when he returned, was surprised at the high prices.Ahmed Khalil, an owner of fishing boats, said that fish is the same as other food items and commodities and there are seasons of abundance of supply, which make the prices drop, while there are seasons of low catch, which drives prices up.Mohamed Iqbal, a fish seller, admitted that the prices of most fish varieties at the market have started to go up by around 20% over the past few days.