BAZAARS AND MARKET OPERATIONS STABILIZE PRICES

By Andi Abdussalam

Jakarta, July 7 (Antara) - Bazaars and market operations launched by Cooperatives and Small Enterprises Ministry, Trade Ministry and State-owned logistics board Bulog have stabilized commodity prices and help low-income people meet their needs in the current fasting month.          "Bazaars and market operations alleviate the burden of the people, particularly low-income people. The trade ministry will continue to monitor the availability of basic necessities and to maintain prices at a stable level," Trade Minister Rachmat Gobel said on Monday.          Up to now, the ministry of trade together with the regional governments has launched market operations in 120 places in 32 provinces. The target of the ministry is to cover 216 locations in 34 provinces.  Up to July 4, 2015, the operations have been conducted in 32 provinces, except the provinces of Papua and North Kalimantan.