FinMin: Availability and Consumption of Basic Foods Not Threatened in Slovakia

Bratislava, September 30 (TASR) - The availability and consumption of basic foods in Slovakia is not threatened, according to a September update of the Analysis of Price Developments of Basic Foods prepared by the Finance Ministry and due to be discussed by the government on Wednesday (October 2). "The aim of the analysis was to update findings on the existence of an extraordinary market situation with a direct impact on the prices of basic foodstuffs on the domestic market, threatening their price stability or availability. The analysis update showed that the availability and consumption of basic foods is not under threat. With regards to these findings, we view the implementation of measures to support price stability and the availability of basic foods as sufficient," stated the Finance Ministry. According to the ministry, the September update confirms that meat prices in Slovakia are lower than in neighbouring countries, while those of bread, apples and potatoes are higher. Concerning pork loin, chicken and beef, prices in Slovakia are 20 percent lower than in Poland. Milk in Slovakia is also 10-20 percent cheaper than in Hungary and Poland. Conversely, bread prices are higher, but the statistics offices may not have been comparing completely identical bread products, which may explain the price differences observed. Egg prices in Slovakia have been at the same level as in the Czech Republic for the past couple of months. The price of butter in Slovakia is slightly higher than in the Czech Republic, but lower than in Poland and Hungary. Eidam cheese in Slovakia is some 10 percent more expensive than in neighbouring countries. Apples and potatoes in Slovakia are some 20 percent more expensive than in Poland and Hungary and roughly the same price as in the Czech Republic. ko/df