SIBU: Imported and local vegetables have gone up in price by 10% to 20% in Sarawak, says the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry.

       Its Sarawak chief Datuk Stanley Tan said in a statement on Monday (Nov 29) that imported vegetables affected by the price increase include round cabbage (China), Beijing cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli.

       "According to the producers and importers, the main factor in the price increase of imported vegetables is due to the cold weather in China which has affected crops, especially leafy vegetables.

       "In addition, the increase in the exchange rate of the US dollar against the ringgit is also a factor," he added.

       Tan said wholesalers and importers had informed his office that higher freight charges and the reopening of economies as well as delays in delivery were other factors that contributed to the increase in the price of imported vegetables.

       For local vegetables, he said, there was no problem in terms of supply but there had been a price increase for mustard greens, beans, long beans and chillies.

       The rising prices of local vegetables, he said, was due to the current monsoon season.

       "Notice to obtain information relating to costs and prices under Section 21 of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 has been handed over to those involved (in the supply chain) and the ministry is still waiting for their feedback," he added.

       Tan said wholesalers and importers assured the ministry that the situation was a temporary one and the supply and price of vegetables would recover in late December after the weather improved.

       "The ministry's Sarawak Enforcement Division will continue to conduct inspections at each stage of the distribution chain to ensure the price of vegetables at the market is still relevant and ensure that traders do not take advantage," Tan said.

       The ministry suggests that consumers seeking price comparison information should download the Price Catcher app on the Android and iOS platforms.

       The app displays the prices of over 400 consumer necessities nationwide on a daily, weekly and monthly basis and at different areas, helping users make price comparisons.

       Members of the public may channel information or complaints related to price hikes to the ministry via its e-complaints portal e-aduan (https://eaduan.kpdnhep.gov.my), its call centre at 1 800 886 800, by e-mailing e-aduan@kpdnhep.gov.my, or contacting the Enforcement Command Centre at 03- 8882-6088 / 6245.