VP: PRICES OF BASIC NECESSARIES STABLE

Jakarta, Feb 18 (ANTARA) - The prices of various basic necessaries in the country are now quite stable, except that of sugar which has slightly increased, Vice President Boediono said.

"After visiting a number of markets and holding dialogs with traders, I can say that the prices of various commodities are still stable," the vice president said after observing three markets, namely Kramat Jati, Pasar Induk Beras Cipinang and Jatinegara here on Thursday.

During the visits to the three markets, Boediono was accompanied by Trade Minister Mari Elka Pangestu, State Logistics Agency (Bulog) President Director Sutarto Alimoeso and Jakarta Governor Fauzi Bowo.

The prices of fruits and vegetables, the vice president said, were also stable, and their distribution from production centers to the markets was smooth so that there were no significant price increases.

He said rice prices at the Cipinang Rice Market were also stable and stocks were guaranteed because its distribution from various production centers was smooth.

Stable prices, he said, also prevailed at the Jatinegara Market, including those of beef, chicken and eggs.

"As a whole, the prices of commodities are stable and commodity distribution smooth," he said.