Malaysian supply shortages, high demand driving up tomato prices

BUKIT MERTAJAM (Feb 15): Shortages in supply and high demand are driving up tomato prices, but the situation is still manageable, said Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry Penang branch director S Jegan. He said retail price surveys conducted from January until Wednesday at 40 wet markets and 31 selected supermarkets in the state showed that tomatoes were sold at RM6 to RM10 per kg, depending on their size. Wednesday's wholesale tomato prices ranged from approximately RM5.30 to RM6 per kg, with wholesalers highlighting a cost increase on Feb 9, reaching RM6.70 per kg. “Most tomatoes in wet markets are sourced from Cameron Highlands, while supermarkets sell imports from neighbouring countries and organic farms,” he said adding that feedback from Cameron Highlands farms shows a shortage due to unripe tomatoes and high demand, which are affecting market prices. “However, tomato prices are expected to drop as transportation companies have resumed delivering vegetable supplies ...