High Prices at Wet Markets in Public Housing Estates Concern Residents
According to a recent survey conducted by the Alliance for the Monitoring of Welfare and Planning at Public Housing Estates, four out of five public housing tenants in Hong Kong feel that prices at wet markets in their estates are higher than elsewhere. The survey polled 700 residents from 40 estates, revealing that close to 80% of respondents find prices at local wet markets to be higher, with 53% considering them “relatively expensive” and 25% deeming them “much more expensive.”
The alliance highlighted a “vicious cycle” that leads to these high prices, explaining that the lack of business at wet markets forces stalls to raise their prices due to decreased sales. This, in turn, drives residents to seek groceries elsewhere, perpetuating the cycle.
With approximately 2.16 million people residing in public rental housing, the issue of high prices at wet markets affects a significant portion of the population in Hong Kong.