BETEL nut chewers are digging deeper into their pockets to buy a fruit due to the current limited supplies.
Over the past weeks, vendors and customers at both the provincial urban centres and Honiara have experienced a significant rise in the price of betel nut bags because of the shortage.
The traditional grown fruit, which is normally sold for just $ 2 to 3 per fruit, has seen a drastic increase to $5 – $10, prompting concerns from some regular chewers who cannot afford to buy the nuts.
Local vendor Ben Lepo speaking to the Solomon Star explained that the price increase is largely due to seasonal shortage.
“We are experiencing a high shortage, which often occurs this time of year. The scarcity of betel nuts started in early December,” he said.
This shortage is not limited to the capital.
Mr. Lepo noted that the price hikes are impacting provincial markets as well.
“In Auki, betel nut vendors normally sell a fruit for about $ 1 dollars each or $5 dollar per heap.
“Now the price per fruit or heap have increased,” he stated.
Despite the rising costs, many betel nut enthusiasts are not giving up and continue to buy the the much loved fruit.
“Chewers are still sparing coins for a betel nut two to three each day,” remarked Mr.Lepo, highlighting the fruit’s entrenched role in the local culture.
Interestingly, while the increase in price may seem steep, some vendors like Mr. Lepo are benefiting from the situation.
“Increasing the cost by a dollar or two is actually gaining me a good profit, despite the low supply period,” he explained.
Looking ahead, reports suggest that the shortage may ease in February, potentially bringing prices back down.
Until then, the betel nut market is in a tight spot, with consumers feeling the pressure and vendors attempting to navigate the temporary spike in prices.
“Our farms are also currently experiencing seasonal high shortage with low harvest which often occurs end and the beginning of the year especially from December to February,” according to local betel nut grower from Guadalcanal Province.
As the situation evolves, both consumers and vendors are hoping for relief soon, as the betel nut remains an essential part of daily life for many Solomon Islanders.
Guadalcanal, Malaita and Isabel provinces are regarded as the main betel nut suppliers to Honiara.
By Jimmy Nolan
Solomon Star Honiara
