Vendors and merchants at the local market in capital city Malé predict prices of goods to rise even further this Ramadan.

Merchants told local press on Monday that there have been difficulties in acquiring goods grown in the Maldives and currently there are shortages in meeting demand for coconut, watermelons, and green leaves.

Prices at the local and fish markets have been seen surges this Ramadan. Fish prices at the start of Ramadan was for MVR 40 per kilogram while it has now increased to MVR 50.

Watermelons are now available for prices between MVR30 and 35 for a kilogram while chilies can cost as much as MVR 40 for 100 grams. A kilogram of papaya has also increased to MVR 30.