Currently, the cost of a sack of onions in the market ranges from MVR 600 to MVR 750, with some wholesalers reporting prices as high as MVR 800 to MVR 1,000. Before this shortage, prices stood between MVR 300 to MVR 400 per sack, indicating more than a twofold increase.
Coral Glas
In a concerning development for households across the Maldives, the price of onions has surged dramatically this week, hitting MVR 50 per kilogram due to a shortage in the local market. The price hike is significantly higher than the same period last year, when a similar scarcity was reported, though prices never reached such steep levels.
Currently, the cost of a sack of onions in the market ranges from MVR 600 to MVR 750, with some wholesalers reporting prices as high as MVR 800 to MVR 1,000. Before this shortage, prices stood between MVR 300 to MVR 400 per sack, indicating more than a twofold increase. This sharp rise has caused widespread concern, as onions are a staple in Maldivian households and an essential ingredient in daily meals.
Onion suppliers have attributed the price increase to supply challenges faced by India, the Maldives' primary source for onions. India, grappling with increased domestic demand and production issues, has struggled to meet its usual export commitments. The Maldives typically imports onions through three weekly shipments from India, but recent disruptions have caused significant delays in deliveries.
However, relief may be on the way, as Maldives Port Limited (MPL) has announced that onions are now being released to the market. According to MPL, two vessels, "Blooha" and "Niumath II," have delivered a total of 6,280 sacks of onions, which will be distributed starting today. The "Blooha" brought in 2,980 sacks, while the "Niumath II" delivered 3,300 sacks. Additionally, another shipment carrying 3,300 sacks is expected to arrive from India on Sunday, which should help ease the current shortage.
While this new supply may alleviate some pressure in the short term, concerns remain about potential price fluctuations and the continued reliance on imported goods, especially during times of global market instability.
