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No
to unfair price hikes: CCZ
Joseph
Madzimure, The Herald (Zimbabwe)
December 06, 2006
http://www1.herald.co.zw/inside.aspx?sectid=12240&cat=8
THE cost of living for an average urban
family of six for the month of November surged close to $209 000,
latest statistics from the Consumer
Council of Zimbabwe show.
This represents a 47,3 percent rise
from the October figure of $141 706
CCZ said notable increase were recorded
in roller meal, which went up 197,7 percent, cooking oil by 196,1
percent, washing soap bars by 112,1 percent, rice by 95,3 percent,
salt by 85 percent, margarine by 85 percent and transport by 50
percent.
The consumer watchdog noted maize-meal
and cooking oil as the major movers since their prices moved significantly.
CCZ said it was concerned about the
general price increases especially in the month of November, which
recorded significant increase compared to previous month.
"There is need for stakeholders in
business to increase, prices, based on factors of production instead
of unilaterally hiking prices to maximize profits," said CCZ.
It said the allocation of funding for
the setting up of the National Incomes and Pricing Commission in
the 2007 National Budget would expedite the setting up the body.
CCZ bemoans the fact that the issue
of salaries, which would have been considered under the Tripartite
Negotiation Forum, continues to lag behind.
Commenting on the National Budget,
the council said it was consumer-oriented in light with the increased
tax-free thresholds.
Presenting the 2007
National Budget last week, Finance Minister Dr Murerwa said
tax-free thresholds would be increased to $100 000 from $20 000
with effect from January next year.
However, CCZ noted that "this relief"
could be short-lived because of the hyperinflation environment.
CCZ urged consumers to be cautious
during the festive season and spend their money wisely because some
unscrupulous supermarkets "take advantage of celebrations and merrymaking."
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