Vegetable Prices in Batam Remain High, Chillies and Onions Main Culprits
Based on field observations on Saturday (13/6), a number of green vegetable commodities such as spinach, water spinach, and mustard greens were still priced in the range of Rp20,000 to Rp28,000 per kilogram. Although these prices have been relatively stable in recent days, consumers consider the figures still high compared to normal conditions.
The most striking price pressure occurred in kitchen spice commodities. Red cayenne pepper currently remains in the range of Rp70,000 to Rp85,000 per kilogram. Meanwhile, curly red chilli is sold at varying prices between Rp55,000 and Rp70,000 per kilogram.
Onion commodities have also not experienced a meaningful price decline. Shallots are still marketed at around Rp45,000 to Rp55,000 per kilogram, while garlic is in the range of Rp38,000 to Rp45,000 per kilogram.
Marwan, 55, a vegetable trader in Batam, revealed that the high prices of chillies and onions are caused by disrupted supply flows from outside the region. As an island territory, Batam is highly dependent on shipments from Sumatra and Java.
“If goods arrive in large quantities, prices can fall. But if shipments are delayed or stock is limited, prices immediately rise. We traders just follow the price from the suppliers,” Marwan said.
He added that this condition has a direct impact on people’s purchasing power. Consumers now tend to reduce their purchase volumes to cope with the high prices.
“Usually they buy one kilogram, now many only buy a quarter or half a kilogram. They still need it, but they adjust their shopping budget,” he continued.
A similar sentiment was expressed by Yani, 25, a housewife met at the traditional market. She admitted she has to think creatively to meet kitchen needs without blowing the household budget.
“The prices of chillies and onions are still expensive. We have no choice but to reduce the amount we buy so that expenses are not too large. We hope prices can come down soon because these kitchen spices are used every day for cooking,” Yani complained.
Apart from unstable supply, traders mentioned that logistics costs and weather conditions in the areas of origin also influence price fluctuations at the retail level. To date, there are no signs of an overall price decline in Batam City’s main markets. The public hopes the local government can ensure smooth distribution so that the prices of basic necessities become affordable again.