Senegalese bakers demand baguette price increase to 210 FCFA

The Regroupement des Boulangers du Sénégal (RBS) is demanding an increase in the price of a 190-gram baguette from the current regulated rate of 150 FCFA to 210 FCFA. The association argues that rising production costs have made current prices unsustainable.

According to the RBS, the cost of essential ingredients and utilities has risen sharply since the 1980s. Specifically, a 50kg bag of flour has increased from 7,800 FCFA to 15,200 FCFA, while 1,000 liters of diesel have risen from 98,000 FCFA to 424,000 FCFA. Other rising costs cited include salt, yeast, electricity, and transportation.

The group noted that previous government promises to lower flour prices have not been fulfilled. The RBS warned that if the state does not respond favorably to their request for a price adjustment that reflects real production costs, there is a significant risk of supply disruptions and a national bread shortage in the coming days.