Hon. Babucarr O. Joof, The Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment
By Buba Gagigo
The Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment has announced that the proposed increase in the price of bread from D10 to D13 has been suspended following discussions between the government and the Gambia Bakers’ Union.
In a statement, the Ministry confirmed that further engagements are planned to reach a consensus on the matter.
“The Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment wishes to make reference to the recent announcement by The Gambia Bakers’ Union regarding the planned increase in the price of a loaf of bread from D10 to D13, effective Monday, 17th February 2024. The Ministry has reached out to the Union on the issue and both sides have agreed to further engagement with the Government on the matter. As a result, the proposed price increment of bread has been put on hold pending further consultations and agreement with the Government,” the statement read.
The Ministry highlighted that since 2019, the government has worked closely with bakeries to address industry challenges while maintaining the price of bread at D10.
“The general public and stakeholders in the bread industry are thus informed that further discussions between the Government and the National Baker’s Union will take place to look into their proposal for a possible solution. The Ministry remains committed and will work closely with the Union to ensure a fair outcome. The general public will be duly informed of the outcome of these deliberations in due course. The Ministry appreciates the patience and cooperation of all stakeholders in the bread industry and will work closely with the Union for a balanced outcome that is favorable to both producers and consumers of bread,” the Ministry added.