A customer picks chilies at a local market in Male': Prices soar at local market due to scarcity of goods. (Sun Photo/Moosa Nadheem)
The price of the popular Kandoodhoo scotch bonnet chilli has dropped sharply in Malé markets as the last 10 days of Ramadan begin.
On Sunday, Kandoodhoo chilli was selling for MVR 330–380 per kg. By Monday, prices had fallen to MVR 230–280 per kg. Retailers are now selling 100 grams for MVR 25–30.
Kandoodhoo chilli prices had surged at the start of Ramadan, when 100 grams cost MVR 40–45, and a kilogram ranged between MVR 380 and MVR 430. Some stalls were even selling it at MVR 450 per kg.
Current market prices for other fruits and vegetables
Papaya: MVR 50 per kg
Passion fruit: MVR 120 per kg
Banana: MVR 50–60 per kg
Watermelon: MVR 35 per kg
Yellow watermelon: MVR 35 per kg
Pineapple: MVR 60 per kg
Limes: MVR 70 per kg