Roti and Dholl Puri Prices Soar by Rs 3, Consumer Protection Slams Hike

Consumers are facing a fresh financial squeeze as the price of popular Mauritian street food, roti and dholl puri, has risen by Rs 3, effective from October 1st. This increase delivers a “new blow” to shoppers already grappling with the cost of living.

New Prices and Trade Justification

The beloved flatbreads, which previously retailed for between Rs 20 and Rs 25, are now more expensive across the board.

Traders argue the price hike was “inevitable”, despite recent decreases in the cost of flour and oil, citing the “soaring price of dry grains” as the primary driver.

Impact of VAT and Business Costs

Ramsahye Maraz, director of Ramsahye Maraz & Sons, also pointed to increased operating costs for some vendors. Since October 1st, certain Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with an annual turnover exceeding Rs 3 million must now pay Value Added Tax (VAT), a new regulatory burden that contributes to the rising cost.

Consumer Association Condemns Increase

The increase has been swiftly condemned by consumer advocates. Jayen Chellum, Secretary-General of the Association des Consommateurs de l’île Maurice (ACIM), described the price increase as “exaggerated.”

Mr. Chellum has called for government intervention, alleging that some vendors are “taking advantage of the situation.”

Source: Defi Media