Government launches price monitoring amid global supply chain disruptions

With global food prices surging due to the conflict in the Middle East, Mauritanian authorities have rolled out an intensive campaign to stabilize essential goods. The initiative targets basic necessities like rice, cooking oil, and sugar—staples that directly impact household budgets.

Market surveillance teams deployed across Nouakchott

Inspection teams have been dispatched to Nouakchott’s markets and will expand nationwide. Their mission includes tracking stock levels, protecting consumers from overcharging, and cracking down on fraudulent practices that could distort prices.

The government’s strategy focuses on transparency and accountability. Merchant compliance is being closely monitored to prevent unjustified price hikes, ensuring fair market conditions for all.

Traders and consumers report stable prices

Aissata Bâ, a local distributor of imported food products like Kadi (bouillon cubes), jedida (clarified butter), and delia (chocolate), confirmed that her prices remain unchanged. “We haven’t raised our rates, and we don’t plan to unless costs force us to,” she stated.

Consumer Fatimetou mint Ahmed echoed this sentiment, noting that despite rumors of inflation, the prices of rice, oil, sugar, and milk have remained steady. “No surprises here—everything is affordable as usual,” she added.

Commercial activity in Nouakchott reflects this stability. Mohamed ould Bouh, a shopkeeper, reported no supply chain disruptions or price fluctuations, emphasizing the market’s calmness.

Strict penalties for price manipulation

The government has taken a firm stance against profiteering. In late March, Prime Minister Mokhtar Ould Diay announced the closure of several non-compliant businesses and heavy fines for those violating price controls. The crackdown extends to unfair competition practices and speculative pricing.

These measures aim to shield households from the ripple effects of global instability while maintaining economic resilience in Mauritania.