Unstable prices of commodities

In normal times, when there is no economic crisis, prices of all commodities are relatively stable and wherever you go prices are relatively the same.

The present condition is a far cry from the above-said condition, with prices of even basic commodities unstable. Prices of the same commodities in different markets, some located only a stone's throw from each other, differ greatly and this is a golden opportunity for diligent speculators with some capital.

For example, Japanese-style sandals costs Rp 3,500 per pair at the market on Jl. Blora, but in Tanah Abang they sell for Rp 6,000 a pair. Likewise with vitamin E (Natur E) tablets which sell for Rp 60,000 a box at some places, the same vitamin is being sold for Rp 75,000 a box elsewhere.

This goes also for stationers. Ribbon for my electric typewriter is being sold for Rp 40,000 each in Pasar Senen bookstore, but I can easily get it for Rp 35,000 from a relative of mine, who lost his job recently but is now busy selling commodities from one market to another to earn a living.

If there are people who grumble about the economic crisis, there are also people who profit by it. Speaking about cooking oil, not a day passes without people, TV and newspapers referring to this commodity. A slight increase in price causes an uproar. This commodity has become as indispensable as rice.

When I was a kid, people used coconut oil which was less expensive than palm oil, so I am at a loss to understand why present day people do not use coconut oil if there is a shortage of palm oil. Coconuts are just up for grabs along beaches, so I wonder why no one has hit upon the idea to use coconut oil.

A. DJUANA

Jakarta