The Competition Commission’s first Cost of Living Report, which highlights escalating pressure on South African households

The Competition Commission’s first Cost of Living Report, which highlights escalating pressure on South African households

Podcast

The Competition Commission’s first Cost of Living Report, which highlights escalating pressure on South African households

Podcast

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Lebohang noted that the report paints a sad and alarming picture of the cost-of-living situation in South Africa. Over the past five years, the cost of essential goods and services, such as electricity and water, has risen by 50% to 65%. These sharp increases have a severe impact on low-income households, who are now forced to spend significantly more on basic necessities.

Lebohang added that these rising costs come against the backdrop of a sluggish economy and persistently high unemployment.

Lebohang also explained that reports of this nature empower the Competition Commission to intervene where there may be anti-competitive behaviour in South African markets. The Commission is essentially laying the groundwork to scrutinise the practices within markets that provide essential goods and services, including the food sector.

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