To cope with the high cost of ginger in the public market, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino has called for increased supply and enhanced post-harvest facilities to address the growing demand for this essential spice.
Tolentino emphasized the need for immediate government intervention, including the development of advanced storage and refrigeration systems, stating that prioritizing these improvements is crucial to meet the growing demand.
The high cost of ginger across Metro Manila and neighboring provinces has been attributed to a surge in demand from manufacturers and limited supply, according to Department of Agriculture (DA) Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa.
De Mesa also explained that ginger importation slowed down. So far this year, only 400 metric tons have been imported, a steep drop from around 5,000 metric tons in 2021.
The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) is currently investigating the reasons behind this decline in imports, which has exacerbated the supply issue.
Farm gate prices for ginger currently range from P120 to P150 per kilo, while market prices have surged to between P250 and P260 per kilo. In some public markets, prices have reached as high as P320 per kilo, prompting Tolentino to urge the DA to take swift action.
The senator also highlighted the increasing popularity of ginger-based products, such as turmeric tea, which has fueled demand further.
“This is a good sign that our countrymen are getting health conscious, as proven by the high demand for this type of beverage,” said Tolentino, noting the benefits of ginger consumption.