Jayen Chellum: "A 50% Increase in Bread Prices is Excessive"

Jayen Chellum, the Secretary General of the Consumers Association of Mauritius (ACIM), has spoken out against the recent increase in bread prices, which he deems excessive and poorly timed given the current economic situation. He believes that such a decision contradicts previous assurances made by the authorities. "This was not the right time for an increase," he insists, noting that a committee should have been consulted before making any decisions. He argues that a more moderate increase would have been acceptable, suggesting that a rise of 40 to 60 cents in the current context would have been appropriate. However, the increase of about Rs 1.30, which represents nearly 50%, is considered by ACIM to be "far too much." Chellum also emphasizes that other factors, such as the rising cost of flour and additional charges, are worsening the situation, placing more pressure on consumers. He advocates for a more balanced approach, proposing that a temporary increase should be accompanied by the establishment of a technical committee that includes consumers, bakers, and authorities.

Despite the announced support measures, he believes that they are still inadequate. "For a family of five, the impact is real, and the support does not compensate for the increase," he says.