The fast fall in vegetable prices must be what Chinese policymakers have long anticipated in their fight against soaring consumer inflation. But sadly, as the recent suicide of a cabbage grower Han Jin in Shandong province shows, it is proving too dear for many Chinese farmers.

The Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Agriculture are right to take immediate action to help farmers facing an oversupply of vegetables.

Nevertheless, the country's pricing authorities should have all the price intervention measures reviewed in line with their actual or potential impact.