The wholesale price of garlic shoots in Wenjiang reached its highest position in ten years. The price was around 1-2 yuan [0.15-0.30 USD] per 0.5 kg in previous years, but has not fallen below 5 yuan [0.74 USD] per 0.5 kg this year. At its height the price was around 8 yuan [1.19 USD] per 0.5 kg. The overall production volume of garlic shoots greatly declined as a result of poor weather conditions. This is the main reason the price reached a record high.
People in the industry explained that the main reasons for the price increases are weather conditions and the staggered supply from different production areas. The winter was particularly cold this year, and March warmed up more slowly than usual. The production also slowed down and the reduced supply was unable to meet demand, which pushed up prices. In previous years the garlic shoot supply began in March and various production areas brought their harvest to the market in bulk at the same time. With an abundant supply the price stays low. This year however the supply from different production areas is spread out and the limited supply further pushes the price up.
Source: Chengdu Business News