By the Gazette Editorial Board The prices of fruit have noticeably increased in recent months to levels which challenge most households. Consumers have been complaining that even the prices of locally-grown fruit, which usually catered to those of a limited income, have exceeded the budget of average families. In reaction to the price hike, online campaigns have been launched urging consumers of various financial strata to stop buying all kinds of fruit in an attempt to force traders to bring prices down. Ironically many families had already been forced to boycott fruit as they could not afford to buy them in the first place. Consumers say that the many intermediate links between the producer and retailer as well as the greed of the merchants are responsible for the price hike. According to Ministry of Agriculture officials, the increase is unjustified. They say that by the time the fruits reach retail markets, the price has risen by 70 per cent over the price demanded by farmers. And so it seems that farmers get the least profit, consumers pay the most and merchants make the best of the situation. Yet, traders say that the rise in the price of fertilisers, transport cost and labour pay is much to blame for the rocketing prices of fruit this season. Merchants also say that the campaigns, which raise the slogan, "Let the fruit rot," will not hit their target because merchants will have to compensate for their losses by putting the prices up again. The government has been trying to exercise control over the markets by increasing its outlets that sell groceries, meat and poultry at competitive prices. And it also holds seasonal fairs which offer discounts on many products. The government, however, has not been able to curb the prices of fruit and vegetables because it is not directly involved in the cultivation and distribution of agricultural produce. And merchants do know that these items are in high demand. The question is whether boycott campaigns would be of use in this case. The local media outlets have highlighted the calls, and despite the positive response they get from some consumers, the effect is not strong enough. For these campaigns to produce the required impact, the people must be aware of their rights. Society at large should show solidarity in face of any attempt at monopoly or profiteering. More consumers should have the will to boycott whatever products, the prices of which exceed the usual ceiling even if they can afford to buy them. Consumers have also been urging the government to come up with mechanisms to control the markets whenever prices go wild. The fact is that the kind of food people eat affects their health, hence the productivity of the workforce.
