A recent survey of major supermarkets along the Suva-Nausori corridor has highlighted a significant rise in the price of a 750ml bottle of ghee, increasing from an average of $24.02 to $31.24 this week.
Seema Shandil, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council of Fiji, expressed concern over the over $7 price jump within a matter of weeks, noting that this sudden hike adds undue strain on consumers.
The timing is critical, as the festive season approaches, traditionally a period of increased demand for ghee, used in religious ceremonies, traditional cooking, and family gatherings.
Although ghee is not subject to price controls, Shandil emphasized its importance during this time, labeling the steep price increase as alarming and unacceptable.
While suppliers have pointed to rising raw material costs as the reason for the escalation, the Council questions the justification for such a significant increase, arguing that businesses must ensure their pricing practices are fair and not exploitative during difficult economic times.
The Council urges retailers to exercise discretion, particularly as demand for ghee is set to rise with the forthcoming festive season.
Shandil asserted that the Council will keep a close watch on the situation and hold traders accountable for any unfair practices that could harm consumers. She also encouraged Fijians to report any unjustified price hikes to the Council.