Lettuce pray: Market shoppers face steep prices ahead of Pattaya Vegetarian Festival

The Rai Vanasin Market in East Pattaya was buzzing with anticipation yesterday as eager shoppers scrambled to stock up on fresh produce for the upcoming Pattaya Vegetarian Festival, which kicks off today, October 2 and runs until October 12. However, as the crowds grew, so did the prices – with many vegetables seeing eye-watering surges just days before the festival begins.

In a dramatic twist, vegetable prices spiked by an average of 20% compared to the previous week, with staples such as cabbage, radishes, and Chinese cabbage bearing the brunt of the increase. Cabbage now costs an eye-watering 140 baht per kilogramme, while radishes have skyrocketed to 300 baht, and Chinese cabbage has hit a jaw-dropping 350 baht per kilogramme.

Kanjana Jaisuk, a local vendor, revealed the reason behind the price surge, blaming it on widespread flooding in key agricultural areas, which has significantly impacted supply. Middlemen and fluctuating supplies from other provinces are also said to be driving prices higher.

As the festival approaches, shoppers are feeling the pinch but are adapting to the situation by buying in smaller quantities. Rather than purchasing by the kilogramme, many are opting for bundles, allowing them to stretch their budget while still enjoying a variety of fresh produce.

Despite the price hikes, demand remains strong, with many keen to participate in the festival’s traditions. The Pattaya Vegetarian Festival, a time for abstaining from meat and indulging in plant-based dishes, remains a major event for both locals and visitors, reported Pattaya Mail.

In related news, Phuket Town is in a race against time to ensure its roads are smooth and festival-ready before the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off tomorrow, October 3. The city’s top brass is pulling out all the stops, with Deputy Mayor Suphot La-ongphet leading the charge on a series of urgent road resurfacing projects across key streets.