Skopje, 27 October 2023 (MIA) - The measure for capped prices for basic food products, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, that since September 20 are being sold under the "guaranteed price" label, will apply until the end of 2023, while the decision to ban manufacturers and distributors from offering promotions and discounts is being lifted, the Government decided on Friday.

"After yesterday's conference and discussion with retailers and wholesalers, and the help from the Economic Chamber to help avoid confusion in the trade sector, the Ministry of Economy suggested today that the measure for capping product prices be lifted, considering that certain retailers interpreted the previous measure as an inability to offer discounts and promotions. Which means that now manufacturers and distributors are free to offer discounts and promotions in order to reduce prices for consumers," said Economy Minister Kreshnik Bekteshi.

The measure for capping product prices by 10 percent from the price they were being sold until August 1 of this year, is being extended until the end of the year, rather than the previously agreed upon November 30, while the solution for unfair trade practices is expected to enter into force then as well.

"According to analysis and discussions with the State Market Inspectorate and Economy Sector within the Ministry of Economy, and bearing in mind that the draft law on unfair trade practices is prepared and soon submitted to Parliament, we expect it to be adopted by the end of the year; we also decided that the measure for capping prices and "guaranteed price" label will be valid until the end of the year, instead of November 30. Until then, we will probably come up with a new legal solution in order to avoid abuse of capped prices," Bekteshi noted.

All food products, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages marked with "guaranteed price" label, he added, must have the highest price from August 1 be reduced by an additional 10 percent in accordance with the measure. ssh/sk/

-