SOME large retailers are reportedly abusing the privilege
of being among the few essential service providers that were allowed to operate
during the lockdown period, aimed at curtailing the spread of Covid-19, to
wantonly increase prices of goods at a time the majority are incapacitated.
Government has decreed a 21-day lockdown from March 30, as
Zimbabwe joins other nations in the fight to contain the Covid 19 pandemic,
which has killed over 50 000 people and infected more than 900 000 others
across the world.
This comes as there has been confusion over guidelines
relating to operation of some smaller retailers, the majority of whom have been
running intermittently or have remained largely closed, creating pressure on
and huge gatherings at large retail chains as people queue to buy essential
goods.
Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers (CZR) president Denford
Mutashu said the association was concerned over the devious conduct of some of
the retailers and warned action would be taken against culprits through the
relevant authorities.
“What we have noted is that some sector players are taking
advantage of the situation to wantonly increase prices. We have given each
other enough warnings but to no avail and we are certainly going to take some
action,” he said.
Mr Mutashu said the agreement had been for a freeze on
price increases during the period of the lockdown in light of the stagnation in
incomes as most companies have closed and people are unable to work.
Unrestrained increases in prices could further constrain
food security and access to basic commodities by many people during the
emergency period announced by President Mnangagwa last week.
This also comes as the global pandemic has disrupted
domestic and international production as well as the efficiency of supply
chains and related logistical operations.
Mr Mutashu would, however, not confirm indications that CZR
and other sector associations were set to meet President Mnangagwa yesterday to
discuss issues around pricing and the role of business in the fight against
Covid-19. Herald
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