Local Trade Back on Track After Devastating Disaster in Aceh

RRI.CO.ID, Pidie - Minister of Trade Budi Santoso confirmed that trade activities in Pidie Regency, Aceh Province, have returned to normal following the flood in November 2025. This is evident from the public market in Pidie, which has fully resumed operations, and the retail sector, where supply chains are intact. The prices of basic necessities in the market and retail are also being monitored as stable.

He made that statement after inspecting the Pante Teungoh Market in Pidie on Monday, 23 February 2026. "We went to Pidie Regency to ensure the recovery of trade facilities post-flood and that economic and trade activities are running smoothly. We checked the prices of basic necessities, and they are stable. It looks like the economy is recovering and prices are under control," said the Minister.

Several traders also confirmed the improving condition and activity of the market. Chili trader, Fajar, stated that the prices of basic necessities have gradually decreased. The price of curly red chili, which had reached Rp35,000/kg, is now around Rp30,000/kg. He mentioned that the price had surged sharply during the floods, with bird's eye chili even touching Rp100,000/kg. However, the prices have now stabilized. According to him, the relatively busy market activity indicates rising community purchasing power.

Meanwhile, Faisal, an egg seller, stated that the distribution of goods has now returned to normal and prices are relatively unchanged after previously being hindered by floods due to bridge damage that forced deliveries to take a detour through the west-south route. He also hopes the government will quickly build a permanent bridge because the emergency bridge currently in use limits transport capacity.

Budi Santoso appreciated the local government and stakeholders for their coordination in maintaining price and supply stability. "Thank you, Mr. Regent and Mr. Vice Regent, Mrs. Head of the Trade Office, Bulog, Rajawali Nusindo, and all parties." "The availability of supply and price stability have been maintained, and economic and trade activities are back on track," he concluded.

Also present during the visit were the Regent of Pidie, Sarjani Abdullah, and the Deputy Regent of Pidie, Alzaizi, the Head of the Pidie District Attorney's Office, Suhendra, as well as the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum of Pidie District. Accompanying the Minister of Trade, Budi Santoso, were the Director General of Domestic Trade, Iqbal S. Shofwan, and the Head of the Commodity Futures Trading Supervisory Agency, Tirta Karma Senjaya.