The demand for fish this festive season has doubled as fishermen sell a minimum of $30 per bundle to middlemen who then sell them at a higher price to consumers.
Vendors at Labasa market said they had received many orders from customers living in Suva.
Litea Diwabono said the price of fish had increased because many fishermen had shifted their attention to the sale of beche-de-mer.
“Ever since the Government lifted the ban, more fishermen have been out harvesting beche-de-mer because it brings in more money,” Ms Diwabono said.
“So, a lower supply of fish, fishermen are selling to us for $30 a bundle.
“And to recover our costs, we need to also increase our price as we need to make profit, so that is why the price of fish is high.”
Rootcrop and vegetable vendors have also tried their best to sell these at reasonable prices.
Vegetable vendor Setaita Taqomakilau said the supply this season was limited.
“Despite the high price, people are buying vegetables and rootcrops,” she said.
“Some customers have complained about the high price while some are okay with it.
“This income is definitely helping vendors feed their families during this festive season.”
