Vujanović: Ban on price increases for basic goods, citizens should report price changes

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - The Government of the Federation of BiH has decided to maintain the prices of certain products at the level of March 5, which increased after the first cases of coronavirus in BiH.

"This is a decision made based on the Law on Price Control. This law has foreseen all possible scenarios, including cases where there has been or could be a significant disruption of supply and demand in the market. The reference event was the first case of coronavirus infection as of March 5," said Minister of Trade Zlatan Vujanović at a press conference in Sarajevo. 

"The most effective measure is to maintain prices at a certain level. This immediate control measure is an implementing act. The coronavirus has been defined as the trigger for its adoption. It is important for citizens that there is a control mechanism, i.e., penalties for legal and natural persons engaged in retail and wholesale trade. All prices that will be unified and that are higher or lower compared to those in the record books from March 5 will be subject to sanctions ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 KM, which includes a quarter of the fine for a legal entity," Vujanović emphasized. 

It is important for the media to convey this information to everyone, to warn traders, and to inform citizens. 

Report price increases for basic goods to:

- Reporting phone: 033 / 22 66 44 (open 24 hours)

- Email: [email protected]

- By mail, to the address Fehima ef. Čurčića br. 6. Sarajevo.

"This decision primarily aims to prevent, or rather to stop, price changes. The government has provided a mechanism for citizens, and it is most important for citizens to react as promptly as possible. If necessary, all inspectorates at all levels will act jointly," Vujanović stated. 

Public numbers for reporting violations of this decision have been published. 

"We have seen that citizens have been posting price changes on social networks, and this will be punishable from today. I remind you that a list of over 20 items has been formed, which is an integral part of the decision, and the prices of these items must not be changed," said Vujanović, adding that according to his statement, this applies to food, hygiene, and protective items.