No justification for increase in consumer basket, says CCZ

In a statement, the CCZ said the increase is unjustifiable because inflation has been stable throughout the year.
“If the basket is also benchmarked from the January family basket of US$509,17 to December, there is a colossal increase of US$36, reflecting 7 percent yet our inflation rate is slightly above 4,2 percent,” said the consumer watchdog.

Meanwhile, the basket for December has shown a marginal decrease from US$546,34 in November 2011 to US$545,35.
The food and detergents basket decreased from US$177,34 to US$176,35 in the same period reflecting a 0,01percent decrease.

CCZ noted that in December 2011 certain products in the food basket have increased from the previous month, while others have maintained or slightly reduced their prices. The following items have increased in prices: cooking oil (15c), tomatoes (10c) and bathing soap (9c).

CCZ has expressed concern at the hike in transport fares during the festive season and peak hours.
The organisation would like to see a downward movement of prices for basic commodities, especially as the rand has weakened against the US dollar.