Bogdanov: we make sure that prices for goods are adequate and fair, we take a balanced approach to regulation

March 3, MINSK. The Ministry of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade takes a prudent approach to risk-based price regulation and responds quickly to the situation. This was stated to a BelTA correspondent by Minister of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade Alexei Bogdanov.

"We have a balanced approach to the formation of a pricing policy. We take into account all emerging risks and quickly respond to the situation. We focus on ensuring that the price on the store shelf is adequate and fair, so that the buyer can buy goods, and the manufacturer and seller can earn," he said. Alexey Bogdanov.

He noted that different forms of price regulation are currently in force in Belarus. Thus, Government Decree No. 100 of February 23, 2021 provides for strict price regulation measures for socially significant essential goods. From December 15, 2021, strict price regulation applies to 29 items of socially significant goods (including FLOUR, barley, bread, beef, pork, chickens, MILK , kefir, sour cream, cottage cheese, some fruits and vegetables, SUGAR, etc.), and also 50 items of medicines.

In addition, the government has limited the maximum levels of selling and retail prices from January to May 2022 for certain types of domestic products. The decree applies to fresh potatoes, white cabbage, table beets and carrots, onions, apples.

"The social orientation is also maintained: there are 10% discounts for vulnerable segments of the population. Trade organizations have met MART halfway and are not going to abandon the agreements," the minister stressed. The discount is given to pensioners, the disabled, large families and low-income segments of the population. Among the goods to which it applies are bread, flour, oatmeal, pearl barley, dry pasta, beef, pork, chicken MEAT, milk, kefir, sour cream, cottage cheese, eggs, apples, vegetables and other goods. 17 retail chains have joined the agreement.