August 22, 2022
DAB Supermarket Price Watch (The Watch) found out in a survey that the prices of some supermarket goods increased significantly by 40% during the two years of epidemic. In fact, supermarkets which sell many goods of daily necessity were not adversely affected while Hong Kong’s retail industry was hardly hit by the epidemic. Many reports revealed that supermarkets might even have significant increase in revenue. The Watch convenor and DAB LegCo member Frankie Ngan considered it unreasonable for supermarkets to introduce price increase.
He proposed the following recommendations and urged the government to protect the interests of consumers.
Urge supermarkets to enhance sense of togetherness with citizens
The Housing Department should curb regional monopoly by supermarket when negotiating leases of shops in housing estates
Formulate guidelines on price tag to prevent sleight-of-hand in pricing
Review existing legislation related to consumer protection to prevent supermarkets from dishonestly pricing and promoting their goods
Strengthen the role of the Competition Commission
The Consumer Council should provide more data to help the public understand price trends
Media enquiries:
DAB LegCo member Frankie Ngan 6600 2511
DAB Community Officer Tsang Wing Fai 6185 1698