Govt announces emergency price controls for toilet paper, masks and other goods

Government has just announced strict new regulations to prevent price gouging during the coronavirus crisis.

Companies are not allowed to increase prices of a list of goods by a margin that is more than the increase in the provision of that good or service. They are also not allowed to increase the net profit margin on a list of goods above the average margin or mark-up in the three months to 1 March 2020.

The list includes:

• toilet paper
• hand sanitiser
• facial masks
• disinfectants and cleaners
• surgical gloves
• surgical masks
• disinfectant wipes
• antiseptic liquids
• all-purpose cleaners
• baby formula
• disposable nappies
• bleach
• cooking oils
• wheat flour
• rice
• maize meal
• pasta
• sugar
• long-life milk
• canned and frozen vegetables
• canned, froze and fresh meat, chicken or fish
• bottled water

Prices for private medical services relating to the testing, prevention and treatment of the coronavirus will also be covered by the new regulations.

Culprits could face fines of up to R1 million or 10% of a firm’s turnover, and imprisonment for up to 12 months.

Suppliers must also ensure the “equitable distribution” of goods to consumers and customers, including small businesses, and must also maintain adequate stocks of goods.

South Africa has seen scenes of widespread panic buying in recent day.

The new regulations also mention that maximum prices could be set on private medical goods and services relating to the testing, prevention and treatment of covid-19.