Mauritanian authorities have initiated a comprehensive price control campaign, directly addressing the potential economic repercussions, particularly rising food costs, stemming from the conflict in the Middle East.
This proactive measure aims to prevent merchants from unduly inflating the prices of essential commodities such as rice, cooking oil, and sugar for Mauritanian consumers.
Dedicated teams tasked with this vital mission are now active across Nouakchott and are being progressively dispatched to other regions nationwide. This extensive operation is designed to “closely monitor market conditions, track inventory levels, bolster consumer protection, and vigorously combat all forms of commercial fraud.”
Aissata Bâ, a marketing agent dealing with various food products, confirmed the current stability. “I manage a diverse portfolio of imported goods, including Kadi (bouillon), Jedida (butter), and Delia (chocolate),” she stated. “Presently, we have not adjusted our prices upwards.”
Echoing this sentiment, Fatimetou mint Ahmed, a local consumer, observed, “The costs for all staple items—oil, rice, sugar, milk—have remained consistent. Despite some circulating rumors, no price increases have been noted in the market.”
Merchant Mohamed ould Bouh further corroborated the situation, affirming that “all prices are currently stable, and the market remains remarkably calm, with no apparent tensions.”
Through these stringent controls, authorities are imposing severe penalties on unscrupulous traders found to be in violation.
In late March, Prime Minister Mokhtar Ould Diay announced that the authorities had already shut down and levied fines against dozens of non-compliant businesses. This action was part of the ongoing government campaign to regulate markets, combat anti-competitive practices, and prevent unwarranted price escalations.
