A recent survey of major supermarkets in the Suva-Nausori area has uncovered a significant increase in the price of a 750ml bottle of ghee, jumping 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 price surge of more than $7 within just a few weeks, which she believes is creating an undue strain on consumers.
This price spike is particularly troubling as the festive season approaches, a time when ghee is predominantly used for religious events, traditional meals, and family gatherings.
Shandil pointed out that although ghee is not subject to price controls, it remains an essential item during this time, making the recent price hike both alarming and unacceptable.
Despite suppliers attributing the increase to rising raw material costs, the Council questions the justification for such a steep rise, emphasizing that businesses have a duty to set fair prices and not to exploit current conditions for excessive profit at the expense of consumers.
The Council urges traders to exercise restraint, especially with the heightened demand for ghee during the upcoming festive period.
Shandil reiterated that this situation should not be tolerated as families grapple with ongoing financial challenges. She also assured that the Council will closely monitor the situation and hold traders accountable for any practices that could harm consumers, while encouraging Fijians to report any unjustified price increases to the Council.