WILLEMSTAD – Fish dishes have long been a staple during Lent on Curaçao, but soaring prices are making this religious tradition increasingly difficult to maintain. That’s the conclusion of a recent price comparison conducted by the Fundashon pa Konsumidó, Curaçao’s consumer foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Development. 

The price survey, conducted between April 4 and 10, focused on 107 popular Lent-related products, including canned tuna and sardines, various types of fish, canned vegetables, and Easter eggs. To gather data, the foundation visited 15 supermarkets across the island. 

The analysis revealed significant price differences, particularly among fish and fish-based products. The consumer group described the prices as "nearly unaffordable" and urged consumers to seriously consider how sustainable it is to continue this tradition under the current economic conditions. 

Where to Shop Smart 

Despite the rising costs, the foundation identified several supermarkets where consumers can still shop relatively affordably. Bon Bini stood out for its broad selection, stocking 80 out of 107 surveyed items. It was followed by Centrum Mahaai with 72 items and Mangusa Hypermarket with 70. 

In terms of pricing, Mangusa Hypermarket emerged as the most affordable, offering 25 of the cheapest items in the survey. Mangusa Rio Canario followed with 24 low-priced items, and Bon Bini came in third with 21. 

The foundation noted that the comparison did not factor in product quality or country of origin. A full breakdown of the results and price comparisons per supermarket can be found at www.fundashonpakonsumido.cw.