Government Addresses Concerns About Food Price Increases

Premier the Honourable Joseph Farrell has reiterated that the government has not increased tariffs on basic goods.

Speaking on ZJB on Friday he stated that the government had only increased customs duties on sugary drinks, tobacco and single use plastics.

The Premier’s comments followed concerns at the rising cost of basic commodities such as cooking oil on the island.

Premier the Honourable Joseph Farrell.

Deputy Premier Dr. the Honourable Samuel Joseph said it was known since last year that the Covid-19 pandemic would cause a spike in the price for food and other items.

He says the government was cognizant of this fact and had decided to reduce the tariff on items such as clothing.

Deputy Premier Dr. the Honourable Samuel Joseph.

Premier Farrell further explains that the shortage of some products on the world would drive up the cost of basic food items on Montserrat.

Premier the Honourable Joseph Farrell.