The cost of living in Mozambique could see a significant increase during the festive season, as a result of the lack of products on the market, resulting from the post-election crisis marked by demonstrations that led to the closure of some borders.

The warning was issued by the Minister of Industry and Trade, Silvino Moreno, who stressed that the impacts of this situation could be quite serious, affecting both product prices and the provision of services.

In a publication by RFIThe minister pointed out that the shortage of products, particularly food, could result in an increase in prices, which would make the festive season even more difficult for Mozambican families.

"We're going to suffer from this stoppage in terms of the availability of products for the festive season and also in terms of the increase in product prices due to a lack of products. The impact will be at all levels, not only on food products, but also on our ability to provide services and attract foreign currency," warned Silvino Moreno.

The political and social crisis in the country, coupled with demonstrations and instability, has culminated in the closure of some borders, with the Ressano Garcia border, which links Mozambique to South Africa, being one of the most affected. This closure, according to the government official, has had a profound negative impact on the country's economy. Ressano Garcia is a vital corridor for trade, especially for the transportation of products from South Africa, including essential items such as food, mineral products and sugar.

"The closure of the Ressano Garcia border crossing, which handles cargo from South Africa, has affected major operations in mining and the sugar industry, among other products. These are goods that supply the Mozambican market and the paralysis of this corridor has brought enormous damage to the country and to operators. It will also have implications for our credibility as an open and reliable economy," said Moreno.

The Minister of Industry and Trade also revealed that the Mozambican authorities are monitoring the situation and the availability of products on the market, in order to mitigate the negative effects of the crisis. According to the minister, the government is working to find solutions to minimize the impact of shortages and price increases, in order to ensure that the population has access to essential goods.

(Photo DR)