BY BEN BILUA
GIZO
A sharp rise in fruit and vegetable prices at Gizo Market has left local residents frustrated and questioning the cause of the sudden spike.
This week, a medium-sized melon is being sold for a staggering $100, while a small melon is priced at $25. Other fruits, including guava, have also seen notable price increases, prompting concerns among regular market-goers.
In contrast, the fish market has seen a drop in prices compared to last week.
A decent-sized tuna now goes for $20, while fresh reef fish range from $10 per heap to as high as $70 for larger species like trevally.
Responding to the issue, Gizo Market Master Moffat Maeta said the price hikes are beyond the control of his office and are driven by several factors affecting the vendors.
“From an outside perspective, it may look like poor pricing knowledge.
“But the truth is these vendors face high costs transporting their produce from remote islands to Gizo. Sea fares, freight charges, market fees, and even the cost of staying in Gizo all add up,” he said.
Maeta said most vendors, many of whom are rural women depend on market sales for income and must factor in their own expenses to make a modest profit.
“At the end of the day, it’s still a business. These poor women also want to make a profit,” he said.
Maeta said the market has regulations on pricing however enforcement is approached with consideration for the humanitarian realities vendors face.
He confirmed that his office is closely monitoring the situation but ruled out penalties for now, opting instead for continued dialogue and understanding.
The price surge comes amid growing concerns over the cost of living not only in the Western Province but all over the country due to the country’s poor economic performance.
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