Minister of Trade and Industry expresses concern over rising prices of basic commodities

The Minister of Trade and Industry, Mark Katsonga Phiri, expressed concern over the rising prices of basic commodities in the country.

In a visit to supermarkets such as Shoprite, Game, Chipiku, and Sana in Lilongwe, the Minister found that the prices of essential items like salt, laundry soap, sugar, and cooking oil have risen by 100% since 2022.

Katsonga stated that it is worrisome to see how prices of these basic items are extremely rising and causing financial burden on the citizens.

In his remarks, he said his ministry will shortly call for a roundtable discussion and bring together manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers to address this issue and to find ways to avoid further financial burden on the citizens.

The roundtable discussion will be an opportunity for the stakeholders to discuss the factors contributing to the price increase and to find ways to mitigate them.

The Minister urged manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers to work together to find solutions that will not devastate Malawians with higher prices.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry will also be monitoring the prices of the commodities closely and will take necessary measures if the situation continues to worsen.

The Ministry’s ultimate goal is to ensure that the citizens have access to affordable and quality goods and services.