The Gambia has imposed a temporary ban on the export of flour due to shortage. 

In a statement the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional and Integration and Employment said it is “imposing a temporal ban on the export, re-export of and across border movement of flour from the Gambia to other countries. 

“The ministry wishes to inform the general public that through its continuous monitoring, and surveillance of essential food commodities has observed a limited supply of flour at the retail end,” trade ministry said in a statement.

“This is due to the fact that the average retail price of flour in the neighbouring countries has gone up, as a result some traders are buying some of the lower priced flour in the country and exporting it to neighbouring countries. 

“Furthermore, given that flour is a major input to the production of bread, any increment on the demand may increase the retail prices of flour and subsequently bread in the country. 

As the country continue to experience the Covid-19 pandemic which is affecting supply chains and prices of essential commodities, the objective is to support domestic supply with a view to containing price hikes of flour.”

“However, MOTIE is notified and urging the public to bring to the attention of the law enforcement agency of any such prohibited activity and the ministry will continue to monitor the market and take appropriate measures when necessary for the benefit of every Gambian,” the statement added.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba