Food prices spike in Jakarta a day before Idul Fitri

A day before Idul Fitri, a number of traditional markets in Jakarta have reported rising food prices.

Yakub, a vendor at Mayestik market in South Jakarta, said the price of red bird's eye chili had increased approaching the festivity.

"It was Rp 50,000 [US$3.75]per kg at the beginning of Ramadhan, but is up to Rp 80,000 per kg now," Yakub said on Saturday, adding that the price reached its peak at Rp 180,000 per kg in February.

The prices of other commodities are also on the rise at Mayestik.

Red chili is sold at at Rp 50,000 per kg compared to Rp 25,000 per kg on regular days, garlic at Rp 80,000 per kg from the usual Rp 50,000 and shallots at Rp 45,000 per kg from Rp 30,000.

Vendors at Palmerah market in Central Jakarta and Kebayoran Lama market in South Jakarta have also reported higher prices as well. Red bird's eye chili is sold at Rp 50,000 per kg, shallots at Rp 40,000 per kg, and garlic at Rp 70,000 per kg.

Tuti, a housewife from Selong, Kebayoran Baru, said that she had anticipated the price hike and bought red chilies several days ago.

Despite the increases, many consider them to be more "tolerable" than in previous years.

State logistics firm Bulog began to release its supply of staple food in the middle of May, while the government flexed its muscles against traders who allegedly play a major role in hoarding food and causing prices to soar. (dis/tas)

Source: Food prices spike in Jakarta a day before Idul Fitri