WILLEMSTAD – Significant price differences for meat, vegetables and fruit have been identified at supermarkets across Curaçao, with some products costing more than 20 guilders extra depending on where consumers shop.
That is one of the findings of a new market survey conducted by Fundashon pa Konsumidó, Curaçao’s consumer advocacy organization, which compared prices at 15 supermarkets across the island.
The research examined 95 products in the categories of meat, vegetables and fruit and found wide variations in pricing for identical or similar items.
One of the largest differences was found in shoulder ham.
According to the survey, one kilogram of shoulder ham was priced at 39.99 guilders at Van den Tweel Supermarket, while the same product cost 18.75 guilders at Esperamos Supermarket — a difference of 21.24 guilders.
Another major gap was identified in sirloin steak prices.
At Mangusa Hypermarket and Mangusa Rio Canario, the product was priced at 37.90 guilders, while at Vreugdenhil Supermarket it cost 22.50 guilders.
Fundashon pa Konsumidó says the findings highlight the importance of price comparison, especially at a time when many households continue to face pressure from the rising cost of living.
The consumer group is advising shoppers to pay close attention to price differences when doing groceries, as choosing the right supermarket could result in substantial savings over time.
The organization noted that factors such as brand, origin and product quality may influence prices, although those differences were not specifically included in the price comparison analysis.
The survey covered a broad range of supermarkets across the island, including Arco Iris Supermarket, Best Buy Supermarket, Bon Bini Supermarket, Boulevard Market Place, Centrum Mahaai, Centrum Piscadera, Carrefour Curaçao, Timmy Supermarket, Ruyterkade Supermarket and Luna Park Supermarket.
According to the analysis, Mangusa Hypermarket and Mangusa Rio Canario most frequently offered the lowest prices, each ranking cheapest on 34 of the products surveyed.
Esperamos followed with 19 products among the lowest-priced, while Vreugdenhil ranked lowest for 18 products.
The findings come as food affordability remains a major concern for Curaçaoan households, particularly amid broader inflationary pressures and increasing import costs.
Fundashon pa Konsumidó says it plans to continue monitoring supermarket prices to help consumers make better-informed purchasing decisions.