Guyana President attributes high cost of living to consumer habits

President Irfaan Ali has attributed Guyana’s high cost of living to shifting consumer habits, specifically a move away from traditional markets toward supermarkets and increased restaurant dining. Ali noted that as more citizens shop in air-conditioned supermarkets rather than local markets, the higher overhead costs and profit margins of these businesses contribute to increased household expenses.

In response to these claims, local commentary suggests that supermarkets, particularly Chinese-owned outlets, may actually provide more affordable options for everyday necessities compared to corner shops or market stalls. Critics argue that the primary drivers of inflation are external factors, such as the shortage of US dollars and the resulting impact of exchange rate fluctuations on imported goods, rather than consumer shopping preferences.