The end-of-year holidays are fast approaching, and with them, the hope of seeing the prices of basic necessities drop on the markets of Kinshasa. However, despite the announcements of reductions made by importers, the reality on the ground seems very different. Indeed, a team from Fatshimetrie went to the central market of Kinshasa and that of Kintambo to note that the promised reductions have not yet materialized.
According to the information gathered, importers have agreed to a price reduction of 5 to 11% on essential products such as horse mackerel, chicken, oil, sugar, powdered milk, meat and corn flour. However, this reduction still seems far from being felt by consumers and sellers on the ground. Disappointment is palpable among traders, with customers clearly expressing their dismay at prices that are still considered too high.
Some merchants testify that despite the announcements of a price reduction, prices remain unchanged or sometimes even increasing. A merchant reports selling a small pile of fish at a price considered high by customers, who were expecting a significant reduction. Similarly, a cold room manager confirms that prices remain stable or even slightly increase on certain products.
However, sources at the Ministry of the Economy assure that the reduction is indeed underway among major importers, and that it will take some time for this reduction to be felt across all markets. The impact of this measure should be felt gradually as merchants sell off their old stocks and restock at lower prices.
It is important to emphasize that this policy of reducing the prices of basic necessities is not limited to the holiday season. The government’s objective is to make this price reduction sustainable, for the greater benefit of consumers. This initiative aims to combat the high cost of living and make essential products more accessible to all.
In conclusion, despite consumers’ expectations during these holiday periods, it is necessary to take into account the logistical and commercial constraints that can delay the real impact of this drop in prices on the ground. It will therefore be necessary to be patient and observe to see the concrete effects of this measure, hoping that it will truly contribute to improving the purchasing power of Congolese households.