The Public Utilities and Environment Committee of the House of Representatives in Bahrain has begun formulating recommendations regarding the recent flour price increase. The committee plans to present these recommendations to the executive branch for discussion in the coming weeks, coinciding with the postponement of Bahrain Flour Mills Company’s decision to raise prices on certain flour products. Committee members are actively discussing proposals aimed at boosting food security in the Kingdom of Bahrain and prioritizing this issue during the upcoming parliamentary session.
The committee members highlighted key proposals, including exempting imported animal feed and its derivatives from value-added tax (VAT) and reducing port rental fees for companies importing these feed types. These measures aim to strengthen food security and support livestock breeders and traders. They expressed their commitment to supporting the executive branch in implementing plans to enhance food security in Bahrain, aligning with the directives of the country’s leadership.
The committee plans to hold further meetings with relevant government agencies and livestock breeders to explore alternative solutions to avoid price hikes caused by the recent decisions made by the Bahrain Flour Mills Company. The focus is on finding ways to protect the financial well-being of citizens and prevent any negative consequences of price increases. The committee is actively working towards a complete reversal of the decision and ensuring the continued availability of affordable food products.
Livestock breeders have called for facilitating the importation of feed and opening the market to other local companies to produce animal feed. The committee has already met with breeders to understand their concerns and demands, taking into consideration the potential impacts of a future price increase. This collaboration aims to address the challenges faced by breeders and find sustainable solutions to support the local agriculture industry.
The Bahrain Flour Mills Company had previously announced a three-month postponement of its planned price increases for its products following a joint meeting between legislative authorities, government representatives, and company officials. This decision came in response to a wave of price increases affecting popular restaurants and cafeterias, prompting businesses to adjust prices for items like samosa and jibati flatbread. Signs have been posted in establishments to inform customers of these price adjustments.
In conclusion, the Public Utilities and Environment Committee in Bahrain is actively working on proposals to enhance food security in the country and address the recent flour price increase. By collaborating with government agencies, livestock breeders, and other stakeholders, the committee aims to find sustainable solutions to prevent price hikes and support the agricultural sector. The postponement of the price increase by the Bahrain Flour Mills Company is a temporary measure, with efforts underway to protect the financial interests of citizens and ensure the availability of affordable food products.
