Seafood on demand on Mother’s Day: Market vendors

Expect Seafood prices to leap this Mother’s Day since demand for them has been strong. But according to Nadi Market vendor Miliana Mocetadra, meeting the demand would be difficult. Ms Mocetadra said the local marine eco-system has suffered consecutive damage from tropical cyclones and from the recent flooding. “This time around, there is not much catch from the sea and whatever is left from feeding the family, we sell to earn income for our family,” she said.

“The price will definitely increase this Mother’s Day because lots of peo- ple will want seafood dish on their table this Mother’s Day.”

The Lomawai, Nadroga native said the demand for seafood from the public was usually high around this time of year. “This has been the trend from previous years that I have been selling at the market and part of it is due to the recent flooding and TC Winston.

“Before the flood, this plastic bag of seashell cost $2 that has more than double to $5 as of now. “Usually when there is a lot of people selling seafood then we will compete for low prices, but it’s just a few of us now. “We are all trying to feed our family with the better income earned.”

“For four small size fish we are selling at $10 and three big size fish we are selling at $15 to $20, $25. For seven Kabajia (Lethrinus Species) I am selling at $15, Sici (shellfish) $5, three Dairo (Sea cucumber/Holothuria scabra) for $10.

Vilisi Adituirabe of Waica Settlement in Nakorokula, Nadroga also shared the same sentiments. “The price has peaked at the moment, but once more market vendors re-settle and market becomes more competitive, the customers will have more alternative and price will dwindle. Edited by Jonathan Bryce