WILLEMSTAD - According to food importers, the new arrangement for the Makutu Básiko (the basic basket) will not lead to more affordability of primary foodstuffs. This is according to Robin Martina, chairman of the Association of Curaçao Importers (BVCA).
BVCA will therefore institute summary proceedings against the state to withdraw or adjust the scheme. The new regulation of the basic food basket has been in effect since 1 September. The government has expanded the list of products, which also regulates 'luxury products' in price. The compensation option has now disappeared for traders and importers.
According to BCVA, it is no longer profitable to buy the cheaper products. Also, according to the importers, the new regulation does not lead to lower prices, because these are determined from the outside by, for example, the freight costs.