WILLEMSTAD - Minister Ruisandro Cijntje of Economic Development (MEO) is looking for solutions to ensure that the underprivileged are more resistant to high food prices. This is the conclusion from the Minister's answers to questions from Member of Parliament Sheldry Osepa, who is concerned about inflation.
Cijntje mentions the Price Publication Application (PPA) with which consumers can compare supermarket products and mini markets as one of the solutions. The PPA should ensure competition among entrepreneurs, which would lower prices. The app is currently in the testing phase.
In addition, he mentions the basic basket smart card (makutu básikocard). With this card people who are less well-off receive a discount on food from the basic basket.
A third plan that is currently being considered is an agricultural project in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature (GMN). The project should reduce the production costs of fruit and vegetables.
Cijntje emphasizes that price increases are an international problem. This is because of the war between Ukraine and Russia, which makes products such as grain more expensive.