Cameroon government takes action against rice merchants violating price regulations
Published on: May 3, 2024.
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The Ministry of Commerce in Cameroon has taken action against merchants who have failed to comply with new approved rice prices. So far, nearly 1,000 bags of rice have been seized, with over 500 in the capital city, Yaoundé, and over 300 in Bafoussam, the regional capital of the West. Several shops have also been closed down, primarily in Yaoundé. These seizures come after a decrease in rice prices.
On April 11, Minister Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana announced a “significant reduction” in rice prices for consumers. The reduction applies to 50kg bags of Indian, Thai, and Pakistani broken rice sold in the local market. Minister Atangana explained that the price decrease is a result of the arrival of the first shipments from a special quota of 190,000 tons of rice negotiated with the Indian government. He emphasized that he had given specific instructions for the enforcement of the new tariffs in order to benefit consumers.
Although the measure has been in effect since April 12, some merchants are still selling 50kg bags of rice at prices higher than the revised tariffs, claiming the need to sell off their existing stocks. However, the Ministry of Commerce is committed to tracking down and penalizing those who fail to comply with the new tariffs, particularly during this time of inflation when the government is working to regulate prices of essential items. Minister Atangana warns that field operations will be intensified to ensure all businesses adhere to the regulations. Consumers are encouraged to report cases of abuse or fraudulent practices to the ministry’s services through the toll-free number 1502.
It is important to note that India has suspended its exports of non-basmati and broken white rice since July 2023 in order to prioritize its domestic market and prevent food shortages or inflation. However, in October, Cameroon was exceptionally granted an import quota of 190,000 tons of rice from India. The government authorized the duty-free importation of this rice to ensure its availability and affordability in the local market, control prices, and prevent speculation. The objective is to maintain a sufficient stock to meet local demands and avoid any shortages or disruptions in rice supply.
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