Market running out of imported goods

JAKARTA (JP): North Jakarta's Pasar Ular market is running out of imported goods following the city's recent massive riots, traders reported Saturday.

Located in Semper subdistrict, the market is known for its low-priced imported goods entering the country at nearby Tanjung Priok Port.

Traders said current stocks, like shoes, perfume, wristwatches and leather products, were from before the massive riots on May 13 and May 14.

They said all the goods were sold at "old prices", Antara reported yesterday.

Abdul, a wristwatch trader, said the riots had scared away suppliers.

"When the riots were going on, several containers were looted. Since then, few freight ships have called," he said.

Sujarwo, spokesman for the Tanjung Priok Port management, said earlier last week that many shipping company offices closed following the riots. (pan)