Large retailers assure of steady supply of food and goods
The Department of Trade and Industry has partnered with retailers to ensure that the production of food and goods remains strong and stable.
Speaking at the National COVID-19 Command Council briefing on Thursday afternoon, Trade and Industry Minister, Ebrahim Patel said his department is working with Shoprite, Clicks, Pick n Pay, and Woolworths - to mention a few - to ensure there are no unjustified price hikes.
Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma led the press briefing on the response to measures put in place to curb the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic.
The press conference came in the wake of the gazetting of regulations on Wednesday to fight the pandemic, which includes a tighter grip on liquor restrictions and prohibitions on large gatherings.
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He adds that the Department has also noted a rise in prices for high demand products.
"There is anecdotal evidence of price spikes in areas such as face masks and hand sanitizers. We are appreciative that the majority of South African did not rush to the stores and have indeed remained calm,” he said.
Patel says he has received assurance from major retailers that they would limit the number of purchases of basic products.
"This has helped calm panic buying. There's also been excellent co-operation from the retailers with government.
"They have committed to help us ensure that there are no unjustified price increases in this period.”