THE prices of coriander and Chinese celery have increased drastically in Penang since the start of Ramadan, said a consumers’ group.

Consumers’ Association of Penang president Mohideen Abdul Kader said a survey it carried out yesterday showed that prices are up to five times higher.

“Daun ketumbar (coriander) imported from Thailand increased from RM10 per kg to RM22 per kg three weeks ago. Currently, it is RM50 per kg.

“Even the price of locally grown daun ketumbar has more than doubled, from RM20 per kg to RM47 per kg.

“Demand for the Thai variety is high as it is more fragrant.

“Daun sup (Chinese celery), meanwhile, has increased from RM4 per kg to RM10 per kg.

“According to traders, the increase is due to high demand for these herbs, especially during Ramadan,” he said in a statement today.

He called on the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry to crack down on traders who hike up prices, and advised consumers to grow herbs at home. – Bernama, May 19, 2020.