Immediately following President Joseph N. Boakai’s rice reduction mandate, Commerce Minister Magdalene Dagoseh says she has embarked on a nationwide inspection to ensure that the new price reductions are properly implemented. She warned of consequences against violators.
Minister Dagoseh said her move, as instructed by President Boakai, is aimed at protecting consumers from what she calls ‘unfair pricing’ and making basic goods affordable for every household. The Commerce Minister stressed that during the inspection, anyone found overcharging will face serious consequences.
According to Destiny Online Television Facebook Page, Minister Dagoseh said, “Well, following President Joseph Boakai’s directive to reduce the prices of rice and other essential commodities, I am leading a nationwide inspection starting today to ensure that these new prices are properly implemented.”
“Together, we can create a fair and transparent market that works for all Liberians. I ask for your support and cooperation during this important process,” she added. On Tuesday, September 2, President Boakai announced price reductions for flour and rice, ordering strict enforcement of his mandate.
An Executive Mansion release said the President’s announcement follows report and recommendation from the Presidential Ad-Hoc Committee on Price Contradictions, chaired by Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Sr. President Boakai disclosed that the wholesale price of flour, which previously stood at US$39.00 per 100-lb bag, has now been reduced to US$35.00 per 100-lb bag. Likewise, the price of rice, which was at US$16.75 per 25kg bag, has been reduced to US$14.00 per 25kg bag.
“These reductions represent my government’s commitment to ensuring that the ordinary Liberian family has access to affordable food. At the same time, we are working with producers and importers to maintain fair and sustainable trade practices that safeguard continuous supply,” he assured. The President has further instructed the Ministry of Commerce inspectorate and all relevant stakeholders to ensure strict enforcement of the new prices across the country.
