Market operation pushes prices down

BEKASI (JP): The government's initiative to sell basic commodities directly to the public has pushed prices down in the mayoralty, an official said Saturday.

The mayoralty conducted the market operation in 10 markets and shopping centers from late March through the first week of April.

"Bazaars conducted by private companies and organizations during the economic crisis have also contributed to the declining prices," spokesman for the mayoralty, Cecep Sutandi, said.

The bekasi mayoralty has distributed 179 tons of rice free of charge and sold another 260 tons of rice at low prices, Cecep said.

"In addition, 82 tons of sugar have also been given away and another 107 tons sold at low prices," he said, reported Antara.

Vegetable oil donated to the poor amounted to 82 tons and another 107 tons were sold at bazaars, he said.

Thousands of people have lost jobs in Bekasi, one of Indonesia's major industrial centers, since the economic crisis began last July. (pan)