The average price index for socially significant food products (SSFP) was -0.1% last week and -0.3% since the start of the month. The current price situation was discussed at a meeting on April 27 chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Serik Zhumangarin, reports infohub.kz.
“Ten regions have seen food prices fall into negative territory, with Akmola and Zhambyl regions achieving this result for three consecutive weeks. Seven regions kept price growth at zero, while three others recorded a 0.1% increase,” said First Vice Minister of Trade and Integration Aizhan Bizhanova.
She noted that prices continue to decline for chicken eggs (1.8%), buckwheat (1.3%), flour (0.7%), rice (0.6%), sunflower oil (0.4%), salt (0.3%), cottage cheese and onions (0.1%). At the same time, alongside seasonal price increases for cabbage and carrots, a rise in butter prices (0.5%) was recorded. However, expected growth in milk production in May should positively impact price stabilization not only for butter but also for other dairy products.
The meeting also reviewed monitoring results of stabilization fund reserves in flood-affected regions. According to regional administrations, social-entrepreneurial corporations (SECs) currently hold stocks of key SSFP totaling 284,900 tons. Working groups have been established in all regions, and an inventory of vegetable stockpiles has been conducted. No disruptions in food supply have been observed in the flooded areas.
Following the meeting, Serik Zhumangarin emphasized the need to intensify efforts during the peak inter-season period across all regions to release previous reserves and timely contract for fresh harvest.