The Federal Ministry of Trade announced new steps with the aim of mitigating price increases and protecting citizens’ living standards, after a meeting between Minister Amir Hasičević and representatives of the FBiH Employers’ Association from the trade sector.
The focus of the discussion was on models of intervention in the market of basic foodstuffs, in the circumstances of increased inflationary pressures, rising input costs and the consequences of the energy crisis.
As announced by the Ministry, a package of measures based on three lines of action was considered. The first relates to the limitation of wholesale margins for key basic products, with the aim of preventing further price increases through the distribution chain. The second foresees the limitation of prices and margins in retail for basic food and hygiene products, while the third refers to the determination of the upper price of basic bakery products per kilogram, in order to prevent abuses through changes in the weight and name of the product.
The Ministry points out that basic foodstuffs have a strong impact on the consumer basket and overall inflation, which is why the increase in their prices hits citizens the hardest, especially socially sensitive categories.
Minister Hasičević said that the goal of the proposed measures is targeted action where inflation affects the population the most, while preserving market stability.
In the statement, it is reminded that certain measures are already in force, among them the limitation of margins on oil derivatives, as well as the measure of locked prices for 63 basic products, which will remain in force until May 1, 2026.
Increased cooperation with the Federal Administration for Inspection Affairs was also announced in order to ensure consistent control of the application of limited prices and margins, prevent abuses and increase consumer confidence.
According to information from the Ministry, the proposal for new measures should be finalized by May 1, after which it will be elaborated through a special rulebook on implementation. It is planned that the measures will be valid for 60 days, with the possibility of extension, depending on market trends, he reports Lukavicki.ba
