The government extended the food price freeze until April 30, 2023. The Ministry of Agriculture justified the government’s decision with the inflation resulting from the Ukranian war and the missed sanctions.
Due to the price cap, 81% more 2.8% UHT milk, 27% more flour, 44% more sunflower oil, 34% more chicken and 46% more boneless pork leg have been bought so far this year compared to the same period in 2021. The increase in consumption averaged more than 25% for products with a price cap (which also includes eggs, sugar and potatoes). The reason for the enormous increase in the quantities sold is panic buying.
The Ministry of Agriculture will continue to monitor the market situation, liaise with stakeholders and make future price cap decisions with great caution, taking into consideration the evolution of the market situation and the needs of the population.