Government’s prices compact with the private sector appears unlikely to be renewed when it expires in about three weeks and seems likely to be replaced by other measures aimed at keeping prices down.

Retailers, wholesalers and retailers had agreed to reduce the mark-ups on more than forty items as part of efforts to help keep down the cost of living in the face of rising prices globally.

The six month scheme is due to expire at the end of this month and businesses, such as supermarkets, have indicated that the concessions have affected their finances to such an extent that it would be difficult to continue.

President of the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Anthony Branker, confirms that’s the view across the business sector.

In fact it appears likely new price control measures will have to be put in place.

President of the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Anthony Branker.