Preventing abusive price hikes
If unjustified increases in the prices of essential goods are observed, the Ministry of Industrialization and Commerce (Mic) will take action. Dina Rakotonirina, the Director of Consumer Protection, made this announcement.
This measure, emphasized by the Regional Director of Industrialization and Commerce (Dric) Analamanga, involves officials from the Ministry of Industrialization and Commerce conducting inspections to be on the lookout for potential abuses. During festive periods, demand is high, leading to price increases according to the law of supply and demand. According to him, the inspections carried out by Mic officials aim to prevent abusive price hikes.
On the market, the price per kilo of local rice exceeds 3,000 ariary (0.60 USD). However, Dric Analamanga announced that there are still prices for imported rice below 3,000 ariary, allowing consumers to make free choices. Some merchants are tempted to sell expired products during this festive period. However, Mic will also take strict measures regarding consumer health.