Chilli prices on the market have soared recently, reaching as high as 40 yuan per kilo for red chilis. It is widely believed in the industry that the imbalance between supply and demand caused by seasonal weather and transportation costs is the main reason for the increase.
The price of red chilli peppers has been fluctuating since November. The rainy and snowy weather across China has been affecting the growth and fruit set. As a result, many areas have been experiencing short supply, especially in Hunan, one of the main consumer markets. The supply from other areas is also insufficient, and prices naturally rose.
According to a trader in Hunan, due to seasonal effects, the sales season of local chilis are coming to an end. Products transported from Hainan and Guangxi produce higher costs, so retail prices are higher. If the weather improves or when the local chilis are back in production in the new year, prices may return to normal levels. Due to the hindered growth and transportation due to low temperature, rainy and snowy weather, vegetable prices are expected to rise steadily in the near future.
Source: Chinese vegetables
