KINGSTON, Jamaica — Shoppers at Coronation Market are experiencing another week of unpredictable price fluctuations, with hot pepper prices soaring to as much as $1,500 per pound. Meanwhile, escallion has seen a modest decline, now priced at $800 per pound by most vendors. This ongoing volatility has left both vendors and consumers grappling with the economic impact of these shifts.
In a recent episode of ‘Market Bag,’ host Brittania Witter revisited the bustling downtown Kingston market to speak with ‘Mama,’ a seasoned vendor who has been a fixture at the market for decades. Her insights shed light on the challenges faced by vendors amid these turbulent times.
Vendors attribute the sharp rise in hot pepper prices, which had already surged in previous weeks, to a combination of adverse weather conditions and reduced supply from key farming regions. These disruptions have led to significant shortages, driving prices to unprecedented levels. Currently, hot pepper is being sold at $1,200 to $1,500 per pound, depending on quality and availability.
Many vendors are warning that unless there is a swift improvement in supply conditions, consumers should brace for continued price instability in the coming weeks. This could result in a particularly costly holiday season, with Christmas shopping likely to be affected by these rising costs.