Despite the rise in costs for vegetables, fruit and root crops this festive season, it didn’t stop people from doing their last minute Christmas shopping before.

The Suva weather failed to dampen spirits.

Tamavua resident Maria Vunibobo said the edible fern (Ota) fetching at $3 a bundle was quite costly.

“Even though it was costly we had no other choice but to buy,” said Ms Vunibobo.

Mani Ram and wife, Sushila Ram of Samabula said pawpaw fetching for $5 a heap and banana’s $5 was costly for them.

Tomu Vuniwai of Veisari said prices were the same every year.

“Despite the sales, nothing has really changed personally for me,” said Mr Vuniwai.

Out of all his shopping on Saturday, the purchase of a walu fish was the most costly for him fetching at $50.

Average prices of vegetables and root crops in the Suva Market:

Tomatoes-$5 a heap;

English Cabbage-one for $5; Cucumber-$3 a heap;

Spring onions-$2;

Dhania -$2;

Lettuce-$3;

Dalo $20-$40 a bundle.

Edited by Rusiate Mataika

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