JEDDAH, 19 April 2007 — Traders in the Kingdom say that prices of consumer goods have increased without any sign of a drop in the near future, raising concern among low-income families.
“Prices are rising and what is sad is that they are not likely to go down. For many families and low-income people it is hard to survive at these prices. It is becoming hard for them to meet their basic needs,” said Abdul Rahman Saif, general manager at Al-Esai Company for Food.
Saif added that within the last few days, some European suppliers have informed them that they have increased the price of milk by 30 percent. “Even the price of rice is increasing. At the same time, there is a supply shortage. Many people will get affected,” he added.
Salesman Alam Faruk said the price rise is widespread. “Rice, sugar and now milk. We are affected as well. We are loosing our loyal customers Kingdomwide.”
Ahmad Al-Ghamdi, a food company owner, said he is surprised by the price rise. “There is no reason for these rises. Unfortunately, low income people are suffering the most.”
Ahmad Bilahmar, a local Saudi, complained about the soaring prices. “It first started with some products. Now it has affected all of them. The only people to be blamed are the traders. Even fruit and vegetables are getting expensive.”
Muhammad Al-Saidi, a citizen, said prices are stable around the world and no global crisis is imminent. “However, in the Kingdom the consumer is the victim. No one is protecting him and traders are making the most out of him,” he added.
