The Commission of price stabilization, established on September 14 by the Government, composed of representatives of the Primature, of Ministries of Trade and Industry (MCI) and Agriculture, Natural Resources and development (MARNDR), of Council of Economic and Social Development (CDES), and the National Coordination for Food Security (CNSA) will propose for adoption at the next Council of Government [Wednesday, October 10], 6 measures against the rise in prices of certain basic food products.

First measure :

In order to fight against speculation, the State will be directly involved in the import of five basic products, rice [first order of 300,000 bags available on the haitian market from Monday], maize, cooking oil, beans and flour. Orders will be placed, with the Office of Monetization, Development Assistance Program (BMPAD) by importers adhering to the program of price stabilization. The Ministry of Economy and Finance and the MCI will set prices and ensure that the selling price to consumers are met. Together in order to increase purchasing power of the population, the government intends to intensify the work with high intensity labor, both in the capital and in the provinces.

Second measure :

Constitute a strategic stock of food to avoid shortages in the market, due to temporary supply difficulties on both external and local markets.

Third measure :

Obligation for importers to buy 10 to 15% of their stock of food from local producers.

Fourth measure :

Strengthen border controls to fight against smuggling of foodstuffs imported by Haiti, which are found in part resold on the Dominican market.

Fifth measure :

Establishment of local structures of purchase of agricultural products, to enable small farmers to access to the procurement, as part of the purchase of food for the strategic stockpile, which will guarantee them a fair price for their products.

Sixth measure :

Establishment of a system of coastal shipping, aimed at reducing transportation costs and contributing to price stabilization.

Before becoming officially the National Policy of the Government, these measures will be presented and discussed at the next Council of Government, to be adopted before being handed over to President Martelly for application.

See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-6657-haiti-social-struggle-against-high-prices-laurent-lamothe-gives-explanations.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-6649-haiti-social-the-government-is-taking-action-against-high-prices.html

HL/ HaitiLibre