Staple goods being sold at exceeding prices at some stores

Cases of some stores selling staple goods at high prices as opposed to the controlled price have surfaced.

The government decided to remove the long standing subsidies on staple goods and give subsidies to those in poverty alone. But the government sale of staple goods is being permitted at a price decided by the government.

Even with the regulation in place, a large number of stores are not following it and some are selling a kilogram of Rice permitted to be sold at MVR 7.96 at MVR 10. And a kilogram of Sugar, which has a controlled price of MVR 8 is being sold for much higher along with kilograms of Flour being sold over the controlled rate of MVR 5.96.

The permitted price of staple goods in the atolls is higher than the capital Malé City. But sources say that some are selling at a much more expensive rate.

An official from the Economic Ministry told Sun Media today that they have received reports on some businesses selling stabple goods above the controlled price and steps would be taken against them.

Financial aid for food is being given to all that meet the requirements at MVR 40 per head. The maximum amount per household is set at MVR 240.