Inpres Market Traders in Ruteng Struggling with Fluctuating Food Prices, Seek Government Support

LABUAN BAJO TERKINI – Small traders at the Inpres Market in Ruteng, Manggarai Regency, are feeling the squeeze as food prices continue to fluctuate. Daily, they grapple with unpredictable price shifts from distributors, erratic weather conditions, and a decline in consumer purchasing power.

Mr. Andreas, a vegetable vendor, lamented that his daily earnings, which once ranged from Rp1 million to Rp2 million, have plummeted.

“The prices of vegetables like tomatoes and chilies fluctuate significantly; sometimes they’re high, sometimes low. If we don’t sell the vegetables quickly, they spoil, leading to substantial losses, particularly with lettuce,” he shared on May 2, 2025.

Mrs. Suryatin and Mrs. Merry, two other vendors with official stalls in the market, echo similar concerns. They highlighted the challenges posed by competition from traders operating outside designated market areas. “We pay taxes, while they do not. Yet, buyers often choose to shop outside because it’s more convenient,” commented Mrs. Merry.

The volatility in pricing becomes even more acute during festive seasons such as Christmas and New Year when demand surges but distributor prices skyrocket. Consequently, vendors find it increasingly difficult to establish fair selling prices without alienating customers.

To add to their challenges, when distributor prices surge, vendors are forced to adjust their selling prices. However, if the products fail to sell, they face the risk of further losses due to perishable goods. In this complex supply chain, small traders contend that distributors are the ones benefiting the most.

In an effort to retain customers, some vendors resort to offering incentives with purchases or lowering prices during slow sales periods. Yet, these strategies have not proven sufficient to sustain their businesses. Each day demands careful monitoring of price fluctuations and the development of independent strategies, all without any government support.

“We hope the government will intervene, whether through financial assistance or by regulating unauthorized traders. At the very least, we seek recognition,” expressed Mrs. Suryatin with optimism.

The uncertainty surrounding food prices is not just eroding their profits; it is also diminishing the spirit of small traders who have long been a cornerstone of traditional market economies. They now await concrete actions from local authorities to help their small businesses endure the turbulent climate they face.

Oleh: Vinsensia Afrila Adon, Elfrida Jemilan, Servolus Bincahaya Tuja –Mahasiswa Prodi Bahasa Inggris Unika St.Paulus Ruteng Manggarai NTT