By Sariba Manneh
In response to a post on social media (Twitter) alleging that shopkeepers in Lamin village have ‘unanimously’ fixed the price of a bag of American rice to D2,400, the Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GCCPC) swiftly investigated the allegation during the weekend.
On Sunday 18th of August 2024, members of the Commission met with the Alkalo of Lamin village and members of the Village Development Committee (VDC) during their investigation of the alleged price fixing. However, both the Alkalo and VDC members claimed they were unaware of the allegations.
The Commission further visited shops in Lamin to ask about the price of a bag of American rice from shopkeepers, and the prices they received for a 50kg bag of American rice ranges between D2,100 and D2,250, contrary to the social media allegation.
After knowing the prices from shopkeepers, the Commission sensitized the Alkalo and the VDC on the mandate of the Commission and the need for members of the VDC to bring to the attention of the Commission, issues affecting their community.
The Commission encouraged citizens to report suspected price-fixing of goods in the market.
“We can collectively curb anti-competitive practices in our markets to enhance the welfare of all consumers. Price fixing is when businesses come together and agree to sell products at the same price,” Muhammed Lamin Drammeh, Advocacy and Information Officer of the Commission said.
