Vegetable prices rise after flooding damages crops in Thailand

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Heavy rain and flooding across several Thai provinces have damaged vegetable crops, reducing market supply and increasing prices by an average of THB10–15 (US$0.31–0.46) per kilogram in some markets. Transport and distribution have also been disrupted.

A survey of a fresh market in central Phitsanulok on October 2 found price increases across vegetable categories. Chinese kale was selling for THB50–60 (US$1.54–1.85) per kilogram, choy sum for THB50 (US$1.54), spring onions and coriander for THB120 (US$3.70), Chinese water spinach for THB35 (US$1.08), and Chinese cabbage for THB30 (US$0.92).

Jinda chillies were priced at THB90–110 (US$2.77–3.39) per kilogram and tomatoes at THB45 (US$1.39). Limes were selling for THB5–9 (US$0.15–0.28) each, depending on size.

A separate survey of markets in Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima district showed increases in leafy vegetable prices. Water spinach rose from THB50–60 to THB100 (US$1.54–1.85 to US$3.08) per kilogram. Thai basil increased from THB80 to THB160 (US$2.46 to US$4.93), while lemon basil rose from THB70–80 to THB170 (US$2.16–2.46 to US$5.24).

Vendors attributed the increases to persistent rainfall and flooding, which damaged crops, bruised leaves, and caused roots to rot. Nakhon Ratchasima and other vegetable-growing provinces experienced rain for almost a week. Flooding also affected Bangkok and Ayutthaya, which serve as vegetable collection hubs.

Reduced crop availability has lowered volumes reaching markets, while demand ahead of the Vegetarian Festival is adding pressure to vegetable prices.

Shoppers at the Phitsanulok market called for measures addressing transport costs and vegetable prices. Some also reported higher living costs following the introduction of the “Thais Help Thais Plus” scheme.

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Source: The Plantations International Agroforestry Group of Companies