Bakers: Lower bread prices mean losses

THE TRINIDAD and Tobago Bakers Association says that Government’s recommendation that the price of bread should be reduced by 15 cents per every 10 loaves, is more than the reduction in the price of flour bakers are receiving. Any such reduction, therefore, the Association is arguing, will mean a loss to bakers. In a press release on Saturday, the Association explained that the Ministry of Consumer Affairs sent a recommendation on bread prices to the Bakers’ Association, prior to the public statement the ministry issued. The release, which was signed by the Association’s President Ronald Austin, stated that a survey was carried out between July 3 and 4, and it was confirmed that the prices of hops bread ranged from $4.50 — $6 per 10 loaves, with the latter representing prices in the distant areas. The Association noted that to date, the ministry has neither invited nor contacted them for information on the prices of bread. However, Austin said that the Executive of the Bakers’ Association is willing and available, to meet with the minister to address any matter pertaining to the baking industry.