Jakarta Traders Frustrated as Plastic Prices Surge Tenfold Since Ramadan

Plastic traders in Jakarta are complaining about the rising prices of plastic in the market. Traders state that the price increase began during Ramadan due to the impact of the Middle East conflict.

A plastic trader named Midi (38) said that the price of plastic has risen up to ten times since Ramadan. He admitted to feeling dizzy because the price of plastic keeps increasing.

“Last Ramadan, it started to rise, not immediately, I mean the increases were gradual. If counted from Ramadan until now, there have been about ten updates of increases, it’s a bit dizzying,” said Midi when met at his shop in the Mampang Prapatan area, Central Jakarta, on Thursday (9/4/2026).

Midi suspects that the increase is due to the rising price of plastic raw materials. Midi stated that as a result of the increase, the price of plastic has now risen by around 45%.

“The average increase is around 45%, mate, from the previous price,” he said.

Midi recounted that the rising plastic prices have caused a decline in turnover at his shop. According to him, buyers have reduced their shopping to be more frugal.

“It’s noticeable, the decline, because buyers’ budgets from before now have to spend more for buying that plastic. It must be felt. So they reduce their own shopping, that shopping budget,” he said.

Midi also explained some prices of types of plastic that have increased. He explained that the price increase has occurred from plastic bags to ice plastic.

“This one, the selling price was Rp 18,000, now it has to be sold for Rp 25,000. White plastic bags, Loco brand, contents quantity 500 grams,” said Midi.

“This one has also increased. Like ice plastic or something, plastic for oil. From a selling price of Rp 10,000, now it has to be sold for Rp 15,000,” he continued.