EDITORIAL - No to price gouging

There have been reports suggesting that some local retailers have been hiking the prices of supplies which are in demand, giving the looming threat of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

When retailers take advantage of these spikes in demand by charging exorbitant prices for necessities, this is referred to as price gouging. Price gouging during a time of emergency or impending crisis should always be frowned upon, as it can be considered an unfair or deceptive trade practice.

Chairman of the Barbados Private Sector Association, Edward Clarke, has sought to address the issue, reportedly stating that this behaviour will not be tolerated, even as Barbadianscomplained about a price hike on items such as hand sanitisers and Lysol wipes, which are now in high demand.

“The private sector is going to play its part. We know that there are concerns by the public about price gouging at this time. Globally, we have heard in the news reports about some of that taking place in some markets, and this is not something that we should tolerate in Barbados and I certainly will not be someone that tolerates price gouging anywhere in Barbados. We believe that even the hoarding of supplies is something that needs to be discouraged,” he is quoted as stating.

He went on to make the point that for those hoarding supplies and leaving others to do without, the vulnerable group would become the weakest link.

Indeed, if those who are hoarding truly think about it, those who do not have access to key supplies to engage in the best hygiene practices – such as cleansing their hands or cleaning
surfaces that might be contaminated – may be more susceptible to the virus and that in turn means there will be greater spread. Plus, it has been said that there are enough supplies in the country to help us withstand the pandemic, but they will not be evenly distributed if people engage in the bad practice of hoarding.

So let us all be rational in how we approach this whole idea of buying supplies and just purchase what is needed. Also, let us be our brothers’ and sisters’ keeper at this time.

Meanwhile, let us follow all precautionary measures issued by the relevant health officials to reduce the likelihood of catching or spreading COVID-19.

So remember to wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub that kills viruses; maintain social distancing, at least one metre (three feet) between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; practise good respiratory hygiene, such as covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze, then dispose of the used tissue immediately. And of course, if you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early.

Let us also do our best to stay up-to-date and informed of any new developments and work accordingly to combat this looming threat to our health and well-being.