Haze Reduces Vegetable Supply and Drives Up Prices in Singapore

Weeks of haze across parts of Southeast Asia are affecting vegetable imports into Singapore, resulting in smaller produce and tighter supplies. Wholesalers reported that heads of iceberg lettuce from Malaysia have been about 50 per cent smaller than usual since the start of October. Experts note that reduced sunlight disrupts photosynthesis, which slows vegetable growth.

The transboundary smoke is causing supply issues in agricultural areas, with the lack of sunlight linked to an estimated 80% decline in vegetable supplies in Java. This reduction in supply is leading to higher prices for vegetables imported into Singapore.

Transboundary smoke is affecting agricultural areas in Southeast Asia, prompting warnings about air quality risks. El Nino is also causing drought conditions in Sumatra and Kalimantan, increasing fire risk and smoke affecting Malaysia.