Inadequate distribution causing higher prices in basic goods: President Jokowi
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: The prices of basic commodities at Kelapa Market, Cilegon City, Banten Province, are higher compared to other regions due to inadequate goods distribution, President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) said on Tuesday.
For instance, he observed that the price of shallots at Cepogo Market, Boyolali District, Central Java Province, which he visited on Monday (April 10, 2022), is Rp26 thousand (US$1.74) per kilogram (kg), but Rp35 thousand (US$2.34) at Kelapa Market.
He also pointed out that garlic is priced at Rp40 thousand (US$2.67) per kg at Kelapa Market, but it costs Rp24 thousand (US$1.6) to Rp25 thousand (US$1.67) at Cepogo Market.
“Indeed, (the price of commodities in) each region is different. However, it (also) shows that the distribution (of goods) has not been good,” the President stated after visiting Kelapa Market, according to a statement released by the Presidential Secretariat.
Although the price of a number of basic commodities in the market is quite high, Widodo assured that their availability ahead of the Eid al-Fitr festivities is still sufficient.
Furthermore, he said he expects commodity prices to remain stable in each region ahead of the Islamic holidays.
“There is no problem with the stock (of basic commodities). Still, importantly, we want to keep the price stable or (even) lower it. That is our hope,” he said.
It is expected that all local governments will strive to keep the prices of basic commodities stable in their respective regions as that is necessary for maintaining the inflation rate and people’s purchasing power, he added.
“Certainly, the local governments are (already) aware of the necessary interventions to control inflation,” the President said.
Besides reviewing the prices of basic commodities, he also handed over a number of social assistance to traders at Kelapa Market.
During a working visit to Banten province on Tuesday, he also reviewed the preparedness of Merak Port, Cilegon City, ahead of the Eid al-Fitr holidays.
The government has set the joint leave for the holidays from April 19 to 25, 2023.
