The Samoa Bureau of Statistics reported a 2% increase in overall agricultural food supply volume in December 2024 compared to November 2024. This rise was attributed to increased supplies of breadfruit, taro, pumpkin, and coconut. However, compared to December 2023, the volume declined by 10%.
The overall price index saw a 1% increase from the previous month, driven by higher prices for coconut, Chinese cabbage, and head cabbage. Compared to December 2023, the price index rose by 4%.
Taro supply increased by 25% to 3,993 kilograms from November 2024 but decreased by 43% compared to December 2023. The average taro price decreased by 3% from the previous month but rose by 13% from December 2023. Annually, taro supply increased by 27%, while its price decreased by 2% compared to the year ending December 2023.
Banana supply decreased by 32% to 1,182 kilograms compared to November 2024, with the average price falling by 2% to $2.18 per kilogram. Compared to December 2023, the banana supply declined by 41%, while the average price increased by 18%. Annually, the banana supply decreased by 6%, with a 6% price increase compared to the year ending December 2023.
Ta'amu supply averaged 340 kilograms, a 36% decrease from November 2024, while the average price fell by 9% to $5.95 per kilogram. Compared to December 2023, supply increased sevenfold, with a 48% price drop. Annually, ta'amu supply increased, while its average price fell by 53%.
Coconut supply in December 2024 rose by 6% to 4,642 kilograms from November 2024, with an 11% price increase to $1.03 per kilogram. Compared to December 2023, supply decreased by 2%, with a 4% price rise. Annually, coconut supply rose by 22%, with a 1% price increase compared to the year ending December 2023.
Breadfruit supply increased by 59% to 135 kilograms in December 2024, with a 38% price decline to $2.22 per kilogram. Compared to December 2023, supply fell by 46%, with an 18% price decrease.
Overall vegetable supply decreased, except for pumpkin, which increased by 17% compared to November 2024. Head cabbage and Chinese cabbage supplies fell by 35% each, while tomatoes and cucumbers decreased by 14%.
The average number of sellers in December 2024 was 232, a 4% decrease from November 2024, but a 20% increase compared to December 2023.
Source: Samoa Observer