Rising onion prices prompt consumption cut in Oman

As onion prices surge in Oman, consumers and shopkeepers alike are grappling with the repercussions of this sudden spike.

The once-affordable kitchen staple has become a luxury item for many households, prompting significant adjustments in consumption patterns.

In conversations with local residents and expatriates, sentiments of frustration and concern are palpable.

In her comments to Times of Oman, Saada Al Mahrouqi, a homemaker in Muscat, said: “Onions are a fundamental ingredient in our cooking, but with prices soaring, we have no choice but to cut back on our consumption.”

“It’s challenging to adjust our recipes and dietary habits, but we simply cannot afford to spend so much on onions alone.”

Shopkeepers are also feeling the impact as they witness changes in consumer behaviour.

K Ravi, a grocer in Ruwi, said, “Customers are buying fewer onions than before. They’re either opting for smaller quantities or substituting with alternative ingredients.”

According to a manager at a leading supermarket, “Prices were hovering around 280-300 baisas per kg in November.

However, over the past few months, the suspension of onion exports from India has led to a spike in prices with the prices hovering between 700-800 baisas per kg. India accounts for nearly 45 percent of the onion imports to Oman.

“It had reached 820bs per kg last week but on Sunday, it has slightly declined to 780 baisas per kg. Onions are now generally being imported from Pakistan, Turkiye, Egypt, Yemen, and Iran.”

The ripple effects of the onion price hike extend beyond individual households with small businesses, in particular, hotels and restaurants, impacting heavily.

“Onions are a basic commodity consumed by every household. When prices rise, it puts pressure on household budgets, leading to reduced spending on other goods and services,” said Ranju, an academic.

“For us, onions are a crucial part of our cuisine. But with the prices skyrocketing, we’re forced to rethink our meals,” lamented Om Singh, an expatriate from India residing in Muscat. “It’s not just about affordability; it’s about maintaining our cultural culinary traditions within budget constraints.”