The prices of basic foodstuffs in Bosnia and Herzegovina are almost identical to those in the countries of the European Union. Incomes vary. As of August 1, the prices of about 300 products and 15 sales facilities were reduced in the Republika Srpska. BHRT checked whether the citizens, in their wallets, feel these reductions, which range from 5 to 20 pfennigs?
Basic foodstuffs more expensive than in Europe. This is confirmed by the citizens they talked to. In a short analysis, meat, milk, bread are often twice as cheap. However, citizens do not see the main problem in high prices, but in low wages. Incomes are increasing in the previous period. However, the impression is that they are lagging far behind the growth of food prices, as well as other goods and services. The prices of certain basic foodstuffs in Bosnia and Herzegovina are twice as high as compared to last year. Traders say it is felt in sales. Markets are getting smaller.
DUŠKA CVIJETIĆ, merchant
Either way, you’ll be able to tell the difference between 10-15 years and a sad day. Yes, there is no chance of that happening or the money, or the market, as much as was earned. Now nothing.
Lower prices of basic foodstuffs could be obtained by changing the VAT. This result could be achieved by introducing a differential VAT rate. Consumer associations say.
OSTOJA KREMENOVIĆ, Consumer Movement of the RS
Let everyone take part of the responsibility. From Bosnia and Herzegovina to VAT. It is tragic that we now have, for example, VAT on basic foodstuffs as well as on luxury goods. Who are we protecting?
That’s what you need in your campaign. In the Republika Srpska, 15 markets with more than 300 products that are available to all citizens participate in the “Socially Responsible” campaign.
DENIS ŠULIĆ, Minister of Trade and Tourism of the RS
Since the beginning of the campaign, several legal entities have contacted us. We expect, perhaps by the end of the week, to expand the number of participants to 20 so that we will have a larger number of people and a larger number of activities.
The trade union consumer basket for July amounts to 2,977 marks. Coverage by the average salary in Bosnia and Herzegovina is 47 percent. Life for many and for our country is survival from first to first in month.
