Enforcement of Maximum Prices for Essential Goods Introduced to Protect Consumers

ORANJESTAD – The government announces that starting August 15, official enforcement will begin for supermarkets selling basic goods at prices exceeding the established maximum caps.

This is a concrete step toward strengthening consumer protection and ensuring that Aruban families pay fair prices for essential products.

Current Situation and Legal Basis

The Department of Economic Affairs, Commerce, and Industry (DEACI) conducts daily price inspections on approximately 1,300 items included in the basic basket of goods across supermarkets and mini-markets in Aruba. Previously, when inspectors identified prices above the allowed limit, DEZHI could only issue a formal warning requesting the merchant to adjust their prices.

With the recent policy change, the government has created the necessary legal framework to enforce these regulations effectively. Moving forward, if a merchant fails to comply with the mandated price caps following a warning or within the given timeframe, an administrative fine may be issued.

Protecting the Consumer

This measure is designed to promote compliance and strengthen legal protections for consumers. It is not intended to penalize businesses, but rather to ensure a level playing field where all market participants abide by the same rules, allowing consumers to trust that regulated prices are respected.

While the majority of supermarkets follow the established prices for the basic basket, a few continue to violate the regulations. This legislative update was prepared specifically to prevent non-compliant stores from operating unchecked without government intervention.

A Transparent and Fair Market

The government remains committed to fostering a transparent, fair, and reliable market. Introducing active price enforcement for the basic basket is part of a broader series of policy measures aimed at modernizing economic supervision and prioritizing consumer welfare.

The government will continue to inform the community about the rollout of these measures and counts on the cooperation of the commercial sector to establish a system that benefits both consumers and business owners, according to the Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs and Primary Sector, Geoffrey Wever.