Vegetable prices showed a seasonal increase but remained low in comparison with the same period last year. Prices were expected to rise even more than usual during the period around the Chinese Spring Festival [February 5th, 2019] as a result of a brief period of cold weather, rainfall, and snow.
One main reason for the increase was the cold weather, rainfall, and snow in south China which affected the growth of vegetables, as well as harvest, transport, and storage.
Another reason was the strong demand during the festival period. Consumers purchase expensive, out-of-season vegetables during this time and the demand further increased the average price. The reason that prices fell after the festival was a sufficient supply. Prices were therefore lower than around this time last year.
Other factors
The vegetable trade surplus is lower than in the same period last year and the winter and spring vegetable supply is guaranteed. The seasonal price increase is expected to continue.
The weather has been relatively good this winter, which stimulated vegetable growth and guaranteed sufficient supply. The price is expected to maintain its seasonal increase and fluctuate within a more reasonable price range.
