Skopje, 10 March 2023 (MIA) — Following the government’s announcement that it was freezing prices on pasta, milk, ricotta cheese, white cheese, yellow cheese, plain yoghurt, sour cream, and buttermilk, the State Market Inspectorate said it would be sending inspectors to grocery stores beginning March 16. Non-compliance fines range between EUR 800 to 10,000.

“These decisions were made in the interest of the public,” the inspectorate said, adding that it was giving retailers until March 16 to lower prices or face “extremely high” fines according to the Trade Law. 

“We also urge citizens to report any price irregularities to the State Market Inspectorate.”

The government announced Friday it was freezing prices of plain pasta (macaroni and spaghetti), 2.8% milk, 3.2% milk, 3.5% milk, ricotta cheese, white cheese, plain yellow cheese (except parmesan), plain yoghurt, sour cream, and buttermilk.

According to the price-freeze announcement, pasta prices will drop by 15%, and dairy prices by 10%. These products must not sell at prices higher than the ones on March 1, 2023. mr/