The National Police's Food Task Force Names 2 Causes Of Rising Prices Of Staples Ahead Of Ramadan

ILLUSTRATION OF DOCK BETWEEN

JAKARTA - Prices of a number of basic commodities have increased ahead of the month of Ramadan. The National Police's Food Task Force said the reason for this was due to increasing public demand.

"Towards Ramadan, there is a tendency to increase the price of basic necessities due to the increase in demand for basic food items," said Head of the Food Task Force Inspector General Helmy Santika in his statement, Friday, March 4.

In addition, another reason is because the price of basic commodities in their country of origin has also increased. Because Indonesia is still importing several types of basic materials.

"Specifically for staple goods, which are mostly imported, such as soybeans, sugar and meat, the increase is influenced by rising prices in the country of origin," Helmy said.

Regarding the hoarding which is suspected to be one of the causes, Helmy said he had not found it. Either at the merchant level or greater.

"So far, no cartel has been found. If the public has information on cartel practices, price games or hoarding, whether carried out by business actors, distributors or certain individuals, immediately inform the Police Food Task Force, so that we will immediately follow up," said Helmy.

In addition, Helmy emphasized that he would maintain the availability of basic ingredients. How, by supervising the production process to distribution.

"The most important thing is to maintain the availability of basic food ingredients. One of the most effective ways to maintain the price of basic necessities is to maintain stock availability and maintain a balance of supply and demand," said Helmy.