Rising vegetable prices are being linked to off-season supply constraints, elevated demand, and higher production costs, according to Minister for Agriculture Tomasi Tunabuna. The Minister stated that fresh produce prices are currently influenced by reduced seasonal supply.
"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."
Seasonal factors, including slower agricultural activity during periods such as Christmas and New Year, are contributing to lower output. According to the Minister, this reduction in supply has increased market prices during the off-season.
Tunabuna noted that some farms are operating controlled environments and using modern technologies to enable year-round vegetable production. However, he indicated that the capital investment required for such systems is reflected in pricing.
"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."
To address consumer impacts, particularly in urban areas, the Ministry of Agriculture is encouraging backyard gardening as a supplementary strategy. The Ministry has allocated resources to support households interested in food production, including assistance for shade houses to mitigate seasonal constraints.
Tunabuna stated that expanding backyard production and adopting climate-smart technologies could reduce exposure to seasonal price volatility and support household food security. For commercial growers operating under protected cultivation systems, the comments reflect ongoing cost-recovery pressures during periods of limited field supply.
The current market conditions underline the interaction between seasonal availability, production inputs, and pricing dynamics in the vegetable sector.
Source: FBC News
