The Ministry of Economic Development (MER) announced that the Government's recommendations on limiting the price of bread have been adopted, according to which the maximum retail price of a loaf of wheat white bread of 500 to 600 grams will be 50 cents per piece, or 40 cents for bread of 300 to 400 grams per piece.
"At the meeting of representatives of bakers and trade chains, recommendations related to determining the margin for traders at a level of no more than 17 percent on a basic loaf of bread; then determining the currency of payment for no longer than 30 days, in which it is necessary to ensure a continuous supply of this type of bread; and determining the producer price of bread by the bakery industry at a level of no higher than 42 cents per loaf," was announced by MER.
Related Articles
The Ministry reminded that a significant increase in the price of a basic loaf of bread was announced at the beginning of June, and that the Government, as it is a basic foodstuff, whose price increase directly affects the standard of citizens, has limited the price to the current state until the end of the year.
"In the meantime, several meetings were held with the bakery industry in order to understand the reasons for the need to increase the price and find ways of support in accordance with the law, which would put this industrial sector in a more favorable position, without endangering other participants in the value chain. In addition to the meetings with the bakery sector, communication was also intensified with representatives of trade chains in order to find an adequate solution to the pressing issue," the statement said.
They added that MER, together with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management and the Ministry of Finance and Social Welfare, based on market analysis, suggested how it is possible to improve the relationship of all participants in the value chain around this basic food.
"According to the above, and taking into account the freedom of entrepreneurship and the provisions of the Law on Protection of Competition, the Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro was sent joint recommendations of the mentioned three ministries that would ensure the maintenance of bread prices at the same level," said MER.
By implementing these recommendations, which will not lead to losses in business, traders and the bakery industry have shown, as MER said, a high degree of social responsibility.
"On the other hand, the ministries will continue cooperation on this issue and will monitor the market in order to contribute to the development of the bakery industry through support measures provided by law and intermediation in all areas for which there is a need for inclusion".
Bonus video:
