Like everywhere in the world, prices are climbing fast in Taiwan. Inflation can be felt in all purchases, whether it’s eggs used for breakfast or ceremonial joss paper burned for the gods.
Prices for goods are rising around the world, and Taiwan is no exception. Taiwan has recorded a monthly inflation rate of over 3% since March. Overall inflation is the highest it’s been in over a decade.
One market shopper says everything is becoming more expensive.
Bakers have been especially feeling the brunt. They’re shelling out more for oil, eggs, and sugar. Bakers fear they won’t be able to shoulder the increasing costs for much longer.
One pastry shop owner says starch, sugar, and milk powder prices have risen considerably.
Egg prices have yet to come down from a shortage from the beginning of the year. Prices for eggs have grown as much as 20%.
Meat is no different.
Pork, chicken, and fish are all pricier. In particular, milkfish, a local favorite, has gotten 50% more expensive.
Even joss paper, an essential element in traditional folk religion, has seen price jumps of 20%. Prices are on the rise, meaning people will have to dig deeper for what they need. Even if they want to pray for lower prices, that’s going to cost them more.