Ministry Intensifies Crackdown on Price Gouging

Aug 11 , 2024


[ssba-buttons]

Over 1,649 trucks laden with essential food items such as edible oil, sugar and rice have been imported, according to the Ministry of Trade & Regional Integration. Officials disclosed that while progress has been made in addressing the hoarding of basic food items and unjustified price hikes, there is the ongoing challenge of controlling the rising costs of construction materials. Minister Kassahun Gofe (PhD) emphasised their commitment to stabilising the market and ensuring affordable access to essential commodities. In one day, officals disclosed 3,512 businesses with excessive price increases have been shut down while 38 traders have been arrested. His comments come on the heels of a Government Communications Service announcement that disregards any economic justification for price increases following recent macroeconomic reforms. Legese Tulu, the government spokesperson, acknowledged the business community that supports the reforms while expressing concern over hoarding and unjustified price hikes observed.


Radar

Korenti, Agelegel Microfinance Ink EV Financing Deal

Korenti Auto Trading PLC has signed a strategic agreement with Agelegel Microfinance to provide accessible financing options for electric vehicle (EV) buyers. The partnership seeks to ease EV ownership by offering fair pricing and loan packages with affordable rates. The initiative supports Ethiopia's push for clean transport and aligns with national sustainability goals. Korenti's managing director said the move reflects the company's commitment to expanding electric mobility. Customers can now...


Radar

NBE Leads Week-Long Bank Supervision Application Forum

The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) is hosting a week-long Bank Supervision Application (BSA) User Group meeting that began on July 7, 2025. The BSA system, developed by a pan-African consortium of central banks including the NBE, automates supervisory work for financial regulators. NBE will take over the rotating BSA chairmanship in September. Opening the session, Frezer Ayalew, Director of Bank Supervision, stressed the need for modern tools to handle growing regulatory demands amid cyberse...


Radar

Six Fuel Companies Banned, Seven Warned, Authority Noted Illicit Activity

The Ethiopian Petroleum & Energy Authority has taken disciplinary action against 13 fuel distribution companies for illegally trading 2.8 million litres of fuel outside the digital system in the past two months. Six firms face a one-month suspension from the fuel import and trading market, while seven others received final warnings and must rectify their operations within a month. Director General Destawe Mekwanant (PhD) said the companies failed to monitor fuel stations and ensure proper...