Fish prices jump 35 percent in Jeddah

Fish prices have risen by as much as 35 percent at the Al-Banqalah central fish market in Jeddah, according to customers.
Shoppers said the price rises are unusual because most people prefer red meat at this time of the year. Merchants said a lack of supply has resulted in the price hikes.
A kilogram of Al-Najil increased by 30 percent from SR50 to SR80 and shrimp by 35 percent from SR50 to SR70. A kilogram of haddock costs SR65.
Abdulaziz Al-Shahri, a shopper, said there was rising demand for fish at the market during the Eid period.
“Going to the fish market is like an outing for the children. They love to watch fish. People are also attracted to the market because of the restaurants,” he said.
Abdulkarim Al-Zahrani said the lack of various types of fish has contributed to the increased prices. He said the price of Al-Najil fish rose to SR80 a kilogram from SR60 before Eid.
Ismael Al-Mish said the price of shrimp was unusually high because there was normally abundant supply at this time of the year. He urged the government to monitor prices and prevent traders from exploiting the Eid season.
Safwat Ali said he visits Al-Banqalah fish market regularly and has seen “noticeable" price hikes "even though there are few shoppers around.”
Ahmad Al-Sumaili said prices were fluctuating for no apparent reason. Many people now find that the fish market charges the same as the supermarkets, he said.
Trader Abdulqudous said prices are determined by supply, the origin and freshness of the fish.
The market has all types of fish available throughout the year including haddock, shrimp, Al-Hareed and Al-Najil.
Nasir Al-Jarallah, director-general of Slaughter Houses and Public Facilities at the Jeddah Municipality, said inspectors constantly monitor the market to maintain health standards, particularly of imported fish from Pakistan and Yemen.