Festive season pushes up prices at Labasa Market

Prices of fruits and vegetables at the Labasa Market have increased during the festive season as vendors adjust to changing consumer buying patterns and reduced sales volumes.

During the holiday period, many shoppers spent less on vegetables and more on meat and other festive food items for celebrations and family gatherings.

As a result, vendors faced lower demand for fresh produce, prompting price increases to cover operational costs and sustain their livelihoods.

Labasa Market Association president Waisea Makulau, who is also a market vendor, said vendors raised prices last week and have continued to do so this week due to the seasonal slowdown in vegetable sales.

Mr Makulau said the festive period traditionally affected market activity, with customers prioritising items linked to celebrations rather than everyday produce.

“Vendors still have to meet daily expenses such as transportation, stall fees and household costs, despite fewer customers purchasing vegetables,” Mr Makulau said.

He added that the price adjustments were necessary for vendors to remain financially stable during a difficult trading period.

Market vendor Saras Wati, from Vunivau in Labasa, said the festive season was challenging for sellers of fruits and vegetables.

Ms Wati said vendors struggled to earn a steady income during this period, as sales dropped significantly.

“This season we still have to earn a living, but during this period we do not make much money,” Ms Wati said.

She added that vendors depend heavily on daily sales to support their families and any decline in customer numbers has a direct impact on their earnings.

Despite the price increases, vendors hope business will return to normal once the festive season ends and regular buying patterns resume.