Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli Dismisses Claims of Steep Price Increases
Fresh Produce Prices Drop by Over 10%
Economy minister Rafizi Ramli has dismissed claims of steep price increases, citing a report from the domestic trade and cost of living ministry that shows a drop in prices of 20 fresh produce items by over 10% from June to July.
According to Rafizi, the cheaper fresh produce in July included cucumbers, green beans, birds’ eye chillies, cabbage, lamb, red grapes, bell peppers, celery, and lime. He also mentioned that the price of whole chicken went down from RM9.62 to RM8.54 a kg.
Inflation Rate Lower than Before Madani Government Took Over
Rafizi emphasized that the inflation rate is lower than before the Madani government took over, and urged those who claim that prices of goods have soared to provide evidence. He said, "No one can deny that the inflation rate is lower than before the Madani government took over. If anyone on social media says the prices of goods have soared, causing them to suffer, I ask them to send me the evidence. That way, I can hand it over to the domestic trade and cost of living ministry for action to be taken."
Only Four Food Items Saw Price Increases of Over 10%
Rafizi revealed that only four food items saw price increases of over 10%, namely papaya, white prawns, Valencia oranges, and guavas. However, he did not disclose what the other 238 goods that increased in price were or by how much they had risen.
Prices of 59 Goods Remained Unchanged
The economy minister also stated that the prices of 59 other goods did not change during the period.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli has provided evidence that prices of fresh produce have dropped by over 10% from June to July, and urged those who claim that prices have soared to provide evidence. He emphasized that the inflation rate is lower than before the Madani government took over, and that only a few food items saw price increases of over 10%.
FAQs
Q: What is the evidence that prices of fresh produce have dropped by over 10%?
A: Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli cited a report from the domestic trade and cost of living ministry that shows a drop in prices of 20 fresh produce items by over 10% from June to July.
Q: Which fresh produce items saw price decreases?
A: The cheaper fresh produce in July included cucumbers, green beans, birds’ eye chillies, cabbage, lamb, red grapes, bell peppers, celery, and lime.
Q: What is the inflation rate like under the Madani government?
A: According to Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli, the inflation rate is lower than before the Madani government took over.
Q: How many food items saw price increases of over 10%?
A: Only four food items saw price increases of over 10%, namely papaya, white prawns, Valencia oranges, and guavas.