Recent surveillance of key supermarkets in the Suva-Nausori corridor has indicated a significant rise in the price of a 750ml bottle of ghee, which has surged from an average of $24.02 to $31.24 in just one week.
Seema Shandil, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council of Fiji, expressed concern over the increase of more than $7, emphasizing that it places an undue burden on consumers. This price surge is particularly troubling as it occurs just before the festive season, a time when demand for ghee typically spikes due to religious ceremonies, traditional cooking, and family celebrations.
Although ghee is not price-controlled, Shandil pointed out its importance during this period, labeling the sudden price hike as both alarming and unacceptable. She noted that while suppliers attribute the increase to rising raw material costs, the Council questions the justification for such a steep rise. Shandil argued that businesses have a duty to make reasonable pricing decisions rather than exploit the situation to maximize profits at consumers’ expense.
The Council is urging traders to exercise caution as the festive season approaches, knowing that demand for ghee will elevate considerably. Shandil insisted that such price increases should not be accepted while families deal with mounting financial pressures.
The Consumer Council intends to keep a close watch on the situation and hold traders accountable for any practices that negatively impact consumers. They also encourage the public to be vigilant and report any further instances of unjustifiable price hikes to the Council.