S$75/kg: Bak kwa prices in S'pore up S$2-S$3/kg as Chinese New Year nears

Chinese New Year is a few weeks away — and bak kwa surge pricing is kicking in.

The price of bak kwa (barbecued meat jerky) has gone up by about S$2 to S$3 per kg, according to Shin Min Daily News.

Bak kwa sold by popular brands, such as Bee Cheng Hiang, are currently going for about S$74 to S$75 per kg, as compared to S$72 per kg in 2023.

Prices across the board are up slightly this year, mainly due to the increase in labour costs and raw material costs, bak kwa sellers said.

A deputy sales manager of Bee Cheng Hiang explained why the higher prices are justifiable: "Our bak kwa uses high-quality pork hind legs. In addition to the increase in raw material prices, we need to hire additional staff during the new year, and other businesses also hire temporary workers during the festive season, so labour costs will go up."

Cheaper ones still available

However, not all prices have gone up.

As an example, the deputy sales manager said the more premium Applewood Sliced Pork is still going for S$88 per kg this year, which is the same price as last year.

For those looking for more affordable options, it was reported that Kim Joo Guan is currently selling bak kwa at S$66 per kg, but the price is expected to rise to S$72 per kg from Jan. 9 until the fifth day of Chinese New year.

Chinese New Year falls on Jan. 29 and 30 this year.

Fragrance Bak Kwa is currently selling bak kwa at its City Square Mall outlet at S$59.40 per kg.

The original price was S$66 per kg.

Top photos via Shin Min Daily News