Unjustified Price Surge in Ghee Adds Burden on Consumers
September 20, 2024
At a time when many households are already reeling from the pressures of rising living costs,
consumers now face an unjustifiable and sudden price surge in the cost of ghee, a daily
household necessity for many Fijians. Recent snap surveillance of some major supermarkets in
the Suva-Nausori corridor has revealed a staggering increase in the price of a 750ml bottle of
ghee, rising from an average of $24.02 in August to $31.24 this week. This shocking price hike
of more than $7 in just a few weeks has placed an unnecessary financial burden on consumers.
This spike comes at a crucial time, as the festive season approaches when ghee is in high
demand for religious ceremonies, traditional cooking, and family gatherings. Ghee, though not
price-controlled, is a vital commodity during this period, making the sudden and significant
price increase both alarming and unacceptable. The timing leaves consumers with limited
alternatives for an essential item that will play a central role in many households during the
celebrations.
While suppliers have cited rising raw material costs as a reason for the price jump, the Council
strongly questions the magnitude of the increase. “This steep hike cannot be justified solely by
external factors such as production costs. Businesses have a responsibility to ensure that their
pricing decisions are reasonable and do not exploit the current economic conditions to make
excessive profits at the expense of consumers,” stated the CEO of the Consumer Council of
Fiji Seema Shandil.
The Council has initiated dialogue with ghee suppliers and supermarkets to get to the bottom
of this sudden surge. However, traders are reminded that they must prioritize consumers’ needs
and operate in a fair and transparent manner. Exploiting vulnerable consumers with drastic and
unanticipated price hikes is unacceptable.
“We also call on traders to practice restraint, especially as the upcoming festive season will see
heightened demand for ghee. Such price hikes during critical times, when families are under
increased financial pressure, can not be tolerated,” adds Ms Shandil.
While the Council will continue to monitor this situation closely and hold traders accountable
for any practices that harm consumers, Fijians are urged to remain vigilant and report any
further instances of unjustified price increases to the Council.
For more information, consumers can call the toll-free National Consumer Helpline on 155, or
email your queries to complaints@consumersfiji.org.