In response to the economic repercussions stemming from the conflict in the Middle East, particularly the rising cost of foodstuffs, Mauritanian authorities have initiated a comprehensive nationwide campaign to regulate prices.
The primary objective of this significant undertaking is to deter merchants from implementing unwarranted increases on essential food items such as rice, cooking oil, and sugar, safeguarding consumer purchasing power.
Specialized teams have been strategically deployed, initially across Nouakchott and subsequently throughout other regions of the nation. This extensive operation is designed to meticulously monitor market conditions, track inventory levels, bolster consumer protection measures, and vigorously combat all forms of commercial fraud.
Aissata Bâ, a marketing professional representing various imported food products, including popular brands like Kadi bouillon, Jedida butter, and Delia chocolate, confirmed the current stability. “We have not raised our prices at this time,” she stated.
Consumers also note the absence of price inflation. Fatimetou mint Ahmed, a local resident, observed, “The prices for all basic commodities—oil, rice, sugar, milk—remain consistent. Despite some rumors, no increases have been observed in the market.”
Echoing these sentiments, Mohamed ould Bouh, a merchant, affirmed the current market equilibrium, stating that all prices are stable and no tensions are evident, maintaining a calm trading environment.
Authorities are enforcing strict penalties against any unscrupulous merchants found to be in violation of these regulations.
In late March, Prime Minister Mokhtar Ould Diay announced that dozens of businesses had faced closures and significant fines. These punitive measures were part of the government’s broader initiative aimed at market oversight, preventing anti-competitive practices, and curbing unjustified price escalations.
