Fish prices likely to rise over lower supply

MUSCAT, MAY 15 - Fish prices at the central fish market in Muttrah are likely to go up during the holy month of Ramadhan due to lower catch as less number of fishermen venture out to the sea during the fasting days, according to the vendors. “Fewer number of people will be going to the sea during the fasting days and the amount of fish for local consumption will be less. This can result in higher fish prices in the market”, a vendor said. Currently, a kilo of sardines is sold at baisa 500 at the Muttrah Fish and Vegetable market while mackerels are charged RO 1. Tuna, however, is less and yellow tuna is sold at baisa 300 average.

In the past weeks ahead of the holy month, prices had dropped significantly in the markets owing to an increased supply of various species at the local fish markets and outlets. Last week, a kilo of Sahwa (long tail tuna) was priced at RO 1 down from previous week’s price of RO 1.200, a kilo of Jaithar (yellow fin tuna) was sold for RO 2, again down from earlier RO 1.800.

Earlier this week, yellow tuna was said to be abundant in Sharqiyah region forcing the fishmongers to sell them at a price as cheap as baisa 200-300. The Public Authority for Consumer Protection (PACP) had earlier said that the prices of essentials are under control and no vendor can increase the prices without the prior approval from the authority.

“Prices of essentials are under control and we are monitoring the goods being imported from across the borders. However, there are certain goods whose availability is purely based on demand and supply. Sometimes they are beyond our control. However, these prices have to be approved by the Authority,” a source at the PACP said.

Meanwhile, the Central Fruits and Vegetable Market in

Mawaleh has announced that all the shops inside the market will be open from 9pm till 4am to enable people buy fruits and vegetables after the special prayers during the holy month.

KABEER YOUSUF