Since the Start of Eid, Fresh Sea Fish Prices in Aceh Remain High, Traders Anxious

Fresh sea fish prices in the Aceh province area have remained high for two weeks since the start of Eid. This is because the supply of fish from local fishermen has decreased from usual levels.

Observations by Media Indonesia on Monday (6/4) at the Pante Teungoh fish market centre in Sigli City, Pidie Regency, Aceh Province, for example, showed the price of dencis fish reaching Rp50,000 per kilogram. This price is more expensive than the usual Rp30,000 per kg.

Then, the price of gembung fish, usually Rp35,000 per kg, has remained between Rp45,000-Rp50,000 per kg since the start of Eid until now. The price of bandeng fish, from Rp30,000 per kg, now remains at Rp50,000-Rp55,000 per kg.

Next, the price of tongkol fish, from Rp25,000 per kg, now remains high at Rp35,000 per kg. Similarly, large-sized mujair fish, usually Rp35,000 per kg, is now Rp40,000 per kg. Medium-sized mujair fish, usually Rp20,000 per kg, has remained high at Rp30,000 per kg since the start of Eid.

“Fish production from fishermen has decreased. That’s why the prices are expensive,” said Abdul Muthalib, a fish trader at the Pante Teungoh market centre in Sigli City.

Abdul Muthalib explained that the low supply of fish from fishermen operating in the Malacca Strait waters is due to disrupted bad weather. For instance, the weather often changes, such as high waves and strong winds. This is why traditional fishermen using small boats find it difficult to sail to catch fish. Especially if the winds are strong, they are very prone to being swept away by currents and at risk of accidents or capsizing.

“After Eid two weeks ago, I’ve only been active selling fish for four days. But the prices are still high. Our capital is high, but the profits are not as expected,” said Tarmizi, a mobile fish seller in Peukan Baro Subdistrict, Pidie Regency.