Trade Minister Zulhas Ensures Food Stock Ahead Of Ramadan Is Available

Minister of Trade Zulkifli Hasan. (Photo: Doc. ANTARA)

Minister of Trade (Mendag) Zulkifli Hasan ensured that before Ramadan food stocks were available in various markets in the regions to meet public consumption. "We see that the stock of goods in traditional markets, one of which is in the Kalekung Market, such as chickens, eggs, rice, chilies, shallots, garlic. So there is no need to worry that before Ramadan, food will definitely be available," said Zulkifli Hasan, quoted from ANTARA, Friday, March 8. He said efforts to maintain food availability in the market by the government would continue to be carried out to maintain public consumption during Ramadan. "For food prices, on average, the price has begun to decline, such as garlic, the price is below the standard of Rp. 36,000 per kilogram, shallots are still cheap, also ranging from Rp. 30,000 per kilogram, chilies are down to a price of Rp. 58,000 per kilogram," he continued, ahead of Ramadan, the government will continue to strive to maintain supply stability and food prices in the market by collaborating with related parties.

"The most important thing before Ramadan is that the goods are in the market for public consumption," he said.

Another response regarding food prices in the market was said by one of the traditional market traders, Sutrisno.

"The current price of large red chilies is still around Rp. 68,000 per kilogram, while cayenne pepper is Rp. 70,000 per kilogram, garlic is Rp. 35,000 per kilogram. The availability is still quite large," said Sutrisno.

He said that before Ramadan this time, it was certain that food supplies in traditional markets would still be available.

"It's safe to go ahead of Ramadan, the supply is still there and continues to come here," concluded Zulhas.