Dholl Puri: Rising Prices Cause Discontent

Rising prices of dholl puri are causing unrest. Vendors justify the increase by citing new taxes and rising labor costs, while consumer associations criticize the prices as being "exaggerated." This conflict raises concerns about the accessibility of this popular dish.

Several dholl puri vendors have raised their prices, prompting mixed reactions from customers. The reasons for the price hikes vary among sellers, but new government measures and increased operational costs are frequently mentioned.

At Chapeau La Paille, the owner explains: "The increase isn’t due to the ingredients. On the contrary, due to subsidies, the price of oil has actually decreased. However, the government imposed a tax starting October 1. Additionally, employee salaries have increased from Rs 900 to Rs 1,200. Most customers understand the price rise, but of course, some complain."

At Dholl Puri Express, compliance with the Value Added Tax (VAT) is also mentioned: "I had to comply with the VAT registration. It’s the government’s fault, and we must answer to the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA). Some vendors are taking precautions. There should have been categorization of activities, especially for food like dholl puri and roti. I will provide receipts to customers."

However, consumer associations find some increases excessive.

Jayen Chellum from the Consumers’ Association of Mauritius (ACIM) states: "A study has been conducted since June on this issue. A dholl puri costs around Rs 10. In bulk, it would be more affordable. When the price of oil increased by about Rs 30 per liter, vendors raised the price of dholl puri by Rs 5 to Rs 10. But even with that, the price of a dholl puri shouldn’t reach Rs 25 to Rs 28. That’s outrageous. Especially since some vendors are not affected by the tax. When one vendor raises their prices, everyone else follows. The government needs to take action."