Ahead Of Ramadan, Chili Prices Rise, Traders At Kramat Jati Main Market Link Mount Merapi Eruption

Chili trader at Kramat Jati Market/ Photo: IST

JAKARTA - The price of red cayenne pepper continues to climb at the Kramat Jati Main Market, East Jakarta. This price increase has occurred since 3 days ago, the price of red cayenne pepper has reached Rp. 75 thousand per kilogram.

The price increase was due to a lack of supply due to the failure to harvest the impact of the eruption of Mount Merapi. The increase in the price of red cayenne pepper had an impact on a number of small traders because they were forced to sell at a price of Rp. 85 thousand to consumers.

Traders at the Kramat Jati wholesale market, Arul said, the increase in the price of red cayenne pepper was due to the crop failure and the eruption of Mount Merapi, so many farmers failed to harvest.

"One kilogram of Rp. 75 thousand in the Main Market, the normal price is Rp. 50-Rp. 55 thousand. The factor is due to crop failure and mountain eruptions, so many farmers fail to harvest. Almost 50 percent of harvest failed in Central Java," said Arul, a red chili trader., Tuesday, March 14th.

The failure to harvest red cayenne pepper also has an impact on limited supply from farmers in Central Java to Jakarta. This price increase certainly makes buyers scream. Moreover, it is currently about to enter the month of Ramadan.

As is known, retail traders who previously bought red cayenne pepper for Rp55 thousand per kilogram, are now forced to buy for Rp75 thousand per kilogram.

The increase in the price of red cayenne pepper is due to the lack of supply and the need for consumers continues to increase so that prices are increasingly expensive.

"Usually the moment of wanting Ramadan and Eid, usually there is no effect on big markets. Except in small markets. This year the moment is due to crop failure," he said.

Meanwhile, the price of shallots has also increased, from the previous Rp. 25,000 per kilogram to Rp. 35 thousand.

"Because of the failure to harvest if shallots are so expensive. Collectors must look to other areas at high prices, with even more expensive transportation costs. That's why it's expensive," he said.

Arul hopes that these prices can be controlled by the government because it makes it difficult for the community.

"Traditional traders complain, but it's the main consumer need. They need it because it's a necessity. They want traders, stable prices, so that buyers can reach it. Because now the economy is still difficult," he said.