Veggie prices in Malaysia up due to bad weather and strong demand, SE Asia News & Top Stories

GEORGE TOWN (THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) – Bad weather and strong demand have led to an increase in vegetable prices in Malaysia.

For the past two weeks, cauliflower prices have shot up by more than 100 per cent – from RM7 (S$2.30) to RM16 per kg – while cai xin, a Malaysian staple, has increased from RM3 to RM9 per kg.

Penang Island Vegetable Wholesalers Association chairman Tan Ban Ben said the price and supply of vegetables are largely determined by weather.

He said the price of spinach, depending on quality, is between RM3 and RM4, compared with RM2 per kg before the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said the price of chilli is also higher now, with the local market selling it for RM10-RM15 per kg.

“The monsoon season has affected the production of vegetables, especially in places like Cameron Highlands.

“Vegetables always cost more during the rainy season or prolonged dry days.

“The…