Vegetable prices have increased by almost 30% recently compared to a month ago at Al Sailiya Central Market, which often is well-known for its reasonable retail prices, local Arabic daily 'Arrayah' reported.
A number of frequent shoppers stressed that the absence or limited quantities of local products have caused the price hike, mostly dictated by the pricing from the country of origin. The average prices there include QR23 for a 6kg box of Iranian tomato, QR15 for cucumber box, eggplants for QR20, cabbage QR30, broccoli QR15, Chinese carrots QR15, beetroot QR10, and zucchini QR 18, among other varieties.
Mohamed al-Marri, a regular customer, said vegetable prices have shot up considerably since the start of this month. However, he noted this is considered normal at this time of the year, mostly due to the high prices from the country of origin. He also stressed that in spite of elevated prices, all types of vegetables are available at the market in good quantities and by the end of the day, most salesmen tend to give their customers lower prices.
Jabir al-Marri pointed out that though the yards for selling local products creates a healthy competition for the good of consumers, they are mostly closed during the summer months. He further indicated that retail prices at Al Sailiya Central Market remain comparatively lower than other shopping complexes and shops.
Ibrahim al-Jabir said that vegetable prices are often governed by the availability and supply. Yet, he sees that prices differ considerably from an outlet to the other within the same market, which indicates the need for tighter control by the entities concerned.
Mohamed Salem stressed that fluctuation in vegetable prices is acceptable thing within the reasonable limits. He pointed out that he does not mind the prices going up or down a little bit so long as all products are available and in good quantities and quality. "It is the summer season which sees more fluctuation of prices and they tend to go up," he added.
