Prolonged haze across Southeast Asia is affecting vegetable imports into Singapore, with wholesalers reporting reduced supplies, smaller crops, and higher prices. Reduced sunlight is limiting photosynthesis and slowing crop growth.

At Pasir Panjang Wholesale Centre, Avo & Co reported that iceberg lettuce from Malaysia has been approximately 50 per cent smaller since early October. Supplies of watercress and baby kai lan from Java have declined by up to 80 per cent, while other wholesalers reported reductions of at least 40 per cent in leafy vegetable availability.

Cabbage supplies have fallen by around half, with Indonesian cabbage prices increasing from S$10 (US$8) to S$15–16 (approximately US$12–13) per bag.

Importers are sourcing alternatives from Australia, Vietnam, and China. However, Australian romaine lettuce costs S$6–8 (approximately US$5–6) per head, compared with S$2–3 (approximately US$2) for Malaysian supplies.

Singapore's outdoor vegetable growers are also reporting slower crop development due to reduced light availability, potentially delaying harvests and lowering yields.

Meanwhile, orders from hawkers and restaurants have declined by 20–30 per cent since early October. Wholesalers expect further supply disruptions if haze conditions persist.

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com