Government Takes Swift Action to Prevent Price Gouging After Hurricane Beryl, Ensuring Fair Access to Essential Goods
“The government is closely monitoring market activities to prevent unscrupulous individuals from taking advantage of the disaster for financial gain. Our citizens should have access to the necessary supplies at fair prices.”
– Prime Minister Holness
——————————————————————
The Government has taken prompt and decisive actions to prevent price gouging, or the charging of high prices on critical commodity items in the wake of Hurricane Beryl. Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared that the government has taken a zero-tolerance approach to prevent the unfair practice.
An order has been issued under the Trade Act to regulate prices and ensure fair access to necessary supplies, protecting citizens from exploitation.
“The government is closely monitoring market activities to prevent unscrupulous individuals from taking advantage of the disaster for financial gain. Our citizens should have access to the necessary supplies at fair prices,” Prime Minister Holness said.
The Prime Minister noted that the government recognizes the significant hardship many Jamaicans are facing during this time and will not allow price gouging to exacerbate the situation.
“I urge the public to report any instance of price gouging, meaning an increase in price over and above what you were paying for the same product or service before the ordeal. Please make this report to the Consumer Affairs Commission or directly to the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce,” Prime Minister Holness emphasized.`
Prime Minister Holness is assuring all Jamaicans that the government is committed to protecting the welfare of all citizens and supporting them through this difficult time.
Prime Minister Holness was speaking in Parliament on Tuesday (July 9) on the government’s plans and initiatives to help Jamaica recover stronger.