Rice Price Rise Survey from Merchant Perspectives - Case Study Comal Market, Pemalang Regency

Abstract

Rising rice prices are a major concern in Indonesia, especially in traditional markets such as Comal Market and Pemalang Regency. This study analyzes traders' perspectives on rice price increases in the commodity market. The results show that retail traders feel disadvantaged, while wholesale traders feel benefited by the price hike. Despite this, the increase in rice prices did not affect sales, as rice is a staple food for the local community. The main factors causing the increase in rice prices include floods in rice production areas and climate change that disrupts rice cultivation. This research also offers strategies for traders to mitigate the impact of price increases, such as efficient inventory management, product diversification, flexible pricing, open communication with customers, collaboration with suppliers, and improved operational efficiency. By implementing these strategies, traders are expected to maintain their business continuity amid the inevitable rice price volatility.