The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) is reporting a “noticeable easing” of price increases between August and September 2024, compared to the sharp spikes seen in previous months.

According to the CAC, while West Indian red pepper still saw a significant 62 per cent price increase and local thyme followed with a 33 per cent rise, overall price movements showed a slight decline.

The update was provided by Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Senator Aubyn Hill, in a statement to the Senate on Friday.

Hill stated that out of the 53 local and imported agricultural produce items surveyed, 16 items (30 per cent) recorded price declines, ranging from 1 per cent to 11 per cent, indicating some stabilisation in market conditions. Three agricultural items (6 per cent) remained relatively constant, while 34 produce items (64 per cent) still experienced increases, but these were less severe, ranging from 1 per cent to 62 per cent.

“The CAC will continue to monitor the prices of goods to ensure fair pricing for all Jamaicans,” Hill told the Upper House.

The senator reminded the Senate that his ministry issued an order on July 2 to support the fair sale of goods, protecting Jamaican citizens from unwarranted price increases of in-demand items after the passage of Hurricane Beryl. The hurricane impacted the island the following day on July 3.

“Since then, the CAC, an agency of the ministry, has been active in the field gathering information to ensure fair pricing of goods,” Hill added.