Extended margin squeeze begins – 13 more products will be subject to regulation

The aim of the provision is to achieve lower consumer prices for more widely consumed foods. The newly affected product groups are as follows:

• beef sirloin

• beef shoulder

• pork liver, pork liver cream

• cream cheese, spreadable cheese

• apples, pears, plums, grapes

• cabbage, tomatoes, onions, green peppers

• baby food

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, since the introduction of the margin reduction, the prices of the affected products have decreased by an average of about 27% in drugstores and more than 20% in grocery stores. The ministry also emphasized that the expanded list includes several products that are common elements of household consumption.

The inclusion of fresh vegetables and fruits may contribute to a greater supply of healthy foods to households. The restriction of the margin on baby food and several dairy and meat products may affect the costs of families with young children.

The authority will monitor market developments with further analyses and will evaluate the results of the measure in the future.