The ManicaPost
Business Reporter
CONSUMERS in Mutare have expressed concern over the random price hikes of goods and services and are calling for Government intervention through price control measures to ensure stability.
In interviews carried out by The Manica Post this week, most consumers said greedy on the part of retailers and service providers had pushed the prices beyond affordability.
The consumers described the price hikes, especially of locally produced goods, as unjustified.
“Prices of goods have been going up over the recent past weeks. Basic commodities have become unaffordable for many us either in local currency or in US$,” said Mrs Nyashadzashe Mutendazvose.
Mr Rudolf Saurombe lamented the profiteering tendencies by some businesses.
“Service providers and retailers are being driven only by their desire to make super profits without considering their customers’ plight. This is unfair to the ordinary citizens and we need the Government to intervene and stop this madness before it gets out of hand,” he said.
Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers president Mr Denford Mutashu attributed the spike in prices to the foreign currency black market and general speculative tendencies among businesses.
Said Mr Mutashu: “The price hikes are being effected along the business supply chain from the manufacturer to the wholesaler and retailer such that consumers end up bearing the full brunt. Procuring foreign currency on the black market and the speculative tendencies by businesses always drive prices up.”
