WILLEMSTAD – Consumers in Curaçao are facing significant price differences for fish products during the Kuaresma (Lent) period, according to a recent price survey conducted by Fundashon pa Konsumidó in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Development.
The study reveals that identical products can cost substantially more or less depending on the supermarket. For example, one kilogram of conch (karko) is priced at 36.99 guilders at Esperamos, while the same product costs 59.95 guilders at New California. Similar discrepancies were found for salmon fillet, with prices ranging from 32.95 guilders per kilogram at Boulevard to 49.95 guilders at New California.
The price comparison was carried out between March 11 and 16 and focused on 138 products commonly purchased during Lent, including canned fish, sardines, fresh fish, and vegetables. In total, fifteen supermarkets across the island were included in the survey.
In addition to pricing, the study also examined product availability. Mangusa Hyper recorded the largest assortment, offering 111 of the 138 surveyed items, followed by Bon Bini with 108 and New California with 92 products.
Mangusa Hyper also emerged as the most competitive in terms of pricing, offering the highest number of products at the lowest prices. Bon Bini ranked second, while Mangusa Rio secured third place.
Fundashon pa Konsumidó says the findings are intended to help consumers make more informed shopping decisions ahead of Semana Santa, a period during which fish consumption traditionally increases. The organization noted that the comparison focused solely on pricing and availability, without taking into account product quality or origin.