Bahrain Flour Mills Company (BFM) recently announced a significant price increase of 35% to 100% for most of its flour products. The new prices, now reflected on the company’s website, have raised concerns among MPs and consumers. While accredited popular bakeries will still benefit from subsidized prices, the general public will have to bear the brunt of these price hikes.
The price of a 50kg bag of flour type 0 has gone up from BD3.7 to BD5.2, while flour type 2 has seen an increase from BD3.1 to BD4.950. Similarly, pizza flour, confectionery flour, and both human and animal bran flour have also experienced price increases. These hikes come amidst a global rise in wheat prices, attributed to market disruptions caused by various crises and wars, especially the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
MPs have raised concerns that the flour price increase will lead to higher prices for various food items like pastries, pies, sweets, and livestock feed. MP Mohammed Al Maarafi, who previously chaired the parliamentary inquiry committee on food security, has stated that the parliament will be monitoring the price increase closely in the upcoming session due to its significant impact on consumers.
Al Maarafi noted that the global price of wheat ranges between $250 and $270 per ton, around BD94, whereas BFM will now be selling wheat at over BD125 per ton under its new pricing structure. Additionally, the price of animal bran has doubled from BD2.2 to BD4.4 per bag, representing a 100% increase. This increase is likely to affect livestock prices, potentially forcing breeders and livestock traders out of the market due to challenges in competing with imported meat.
Overall, the price increases in flour products by Bahrain Flour Mills Company have raised concerns among lawmakers and consumers alike. While popular bakeries will continue to benefit from subsidized prices, the general public will have to bear the brunt of these significant price hikes. The global rise in wheat prices, attributed to various crises and conflicts, has further compounded the situation, leading to fears of increased prices for various food items and potential impacts on livestock prices and breeders. Lawmakers have promised to monitor the situation closely to ensure that consumers are not unduly burdened by these price increases.
