FABAG Chair Slams Unjustified Price Increases

- FABAG chair calls recent price hikes “illogical"
- Urges government to monitor and regulate prices
- Questions price increases despite stable fuel costs
John Awumi, Chairman of the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG), has expressed deep concern over the recent spike in the cost of goods and services, labeling the price increases as “illogical” and lacking any sound justification. During an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, April 10, Awumi questioned the reasoning behind these hikes, pointing out inconsistencies in the broader economic landscape. He called on the government to take a more active role in tracking and addressing these unexplained price surges, stressing the need for stronger oversight and greater transparency.
Awumi specifically urged the Ministry of Trade to investigate the root causes of the price hikes and to collect accurate data to guide national economic policy. “Looking at the trends, government intervention is necessary. We need to take ownership of our economy. You can’t just enter a part of the country and arbitrarily raise prices without justification.
“A pepper seller blames the dollar. A bean or okra seller will say the same. It’s time the Ministry of Trade steps in, collects the necessary data, and ensures that the inflation figures we’re seeing actually reflect reality on the ground,” he said.
His comments echo growing public dissatisfaction with the rising cost of living, particularly as fuel and transport prices have remained stable—developments many hoped would ease the pressure on everyday goods and building materials.