Onion prices rise to MVR 35 per kilo as traders cite supply difficulties

The price of onions in Male' City has risen sharply amid difficulties in sourcing the commodity from the market.

Onions, which typically retail for MVR 16–18 per kilo, are now being sold for MVR 30–35 per kilo in many shops across the capital.

Traders who spoke to Sun said the increase is driven by limited availability in the wholesale market. One trader noted that wholesalers were restricting sales to a maximum of three kilos per customer due to the shortage.

However, an STO official denied any supply shortage, saying the company is not facing difficulties in securing onions. The official said prices are expected to rise temporarily due to rain‑related supply disruptions and a delay in the arrival of a shipment, adding that STO is monitoring the situation.

Despite the higher retail prices in shops, onions remain available at MVR 13 per kilo at STO.

Onions are among the most widely used household staples in the Maldives, with demand typically surging during Ramadan. The item is also included among the 23 essential commodities imported by STO to help stabilise market prices.