Fatshimetrie, June 21, 2024 – Surprising news recently shook the market scene in Kinshasa, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Indeed, the price of a 75 ml bottle of mineral water has fallen significantly since the start of the dry season. Careful observation revealed that this price increased from 700 to 500 FC, a notable development which attracted the attention of consumers and traders.
Joël Nianca, custodian of this commodity, spoke about this price drop, highlighting the reasons behind this sudden change. According to him, the addition of a bonus of one packet for every ten purchased contributed to this price reduction. In addition, the abundance of these products on the markets also played a key role in this decrease in prices. Mineral water, such as Swista, Canadian Pure, American, or even Bora, saw its prices increase from 700, 600 and 500 FC respectively.
These products, essential for many households, have become essential in Kinshasa’s shops, thus generating stable and regular revenue for traders. Many households, equipped with a freezer, have started selling these bottles of mineral water, thus creating a thriving small business in the city’s neighborhoods.
This mini-study on the evolution of prices of mineral water bottles in Kinshasa shows the importance of seasonality and supply and demand in the commercial sector. This drop in prices, while beneficial for consumers, also raises questions about the profitability and competition of local merchants. It is interesting to see how these price variations can impact the local economy and the consumption habits of residents of the Congolese capital.
Ultimately, this drop in the prices of bottled mineral water in Kinshasa is a phenomenon to be monitored closely, both for consumers and for those in the commercial sector. It highlights the dynamics of local markets and the strategies employed by traders to adapt to seasons and consumption trends.