Rayong:Flooding in Rayong province has led to a significant increase in the prices of common vegetables, particularly basil leaves. At the Khlong Thom Ban Khai market in Ban Khai district, the wholesale price of basil leaves has surged from 40-50 baht per kilogram to 150-190 baht per kilogram, marking a three-fold increase.

According to Thai News Agency, the flooding has destroyed nearly all basil plants in local farms, causing them to rot and die. As a result, vendors have been forced to source basil from other regions and discard damaged leaves, substantially reducing the available quantity for sale.

The price increase extends beyond basil. Coriander has risen to 500 baht for a 5-kilogram bag, spring onions now cost over 100 baht per kilogram, and chili peppers approach 200 baht per kilogram. Additionally, basil, mint, and water spinach, which were previously sold in small bunches for 5 baht each, have increased to 10-20 baht.

Consumers and food vendors are affected by these rising costs. Despite the increased expenses, vendors are striving to maintain their prices by slightly reducing the amount of basil used, while ensuring that the food remains flavorful.