Price control measures introduced amid growing popular discontent

Faced with unprecedented price hikes of several commodities, coupled with growing popular discontent, PM Pravind Jugnauth has told Parliament that a price control measure will set a maximum price for selected groceries.

These include edible oil, pulses, canned tomatoes, milk powder, margarine, cheese and canned fish (sardines and pilchards).

The announcement came days after NGOs and Consumer Protection activists threatened to take to the streets over the price hikes, including that of petrol.

A subsidy worth around Rs500 million is to be granted on these products, via the Mauritius Revenue Authority, with a view to compensating the loss in revenue to importers, manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors and retailers.

Jugnauth said the State Trading Corporation will also be allowed to import certain essential products in a bid to reduce importation costs, stabilise retail price and make the product more accessible. 

Reacting to the PM’s announcement, the NGOs said the protests and go-slow actions will be maintained.