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2 clusters · 4 sources · 16 days · First seen · Last updated

Eswatini rising cost of living

Overview

Eswatini has experienced increases in the costs of essential goods and services due to rising operational and business expenses.

In late September, the Eswatini Cabinet approved a 4.23% increase in regulated bread prices, effective October 1. The Eswatini Bakers’ Association attributed the move to escalating costs for flour, utilities, fuel, and premix. Sonto Hlophe of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade noted the adjustment was necessary to ensure the sustainability of the local bakery sector.

By early October, public transport operators implemented fare increases of up to 38.46%. Operators cited economic pressures and a return to maximum rates established in 2022 as justifications for the hikes. Commuters expressed concern regarding the financial burden placed on households for daily travel.

Entities

Eswatini · Sonto Hlophe · SANTACO · South African National Taxi Council · Eswatini Bakers’ Association

Timeline

  1. [BUSINESS] 2 sources
    Eswatini public transport fares increase by up to 38%

    Public transport operators in Eswatini have raised fares by up to 38.46 per cent to meet economic pressures, sparking concerns among commuters regarding the rising cost of daily travel.

  2. [BUSINESS] 3 sources
    Eswatini bread prices to increase by 4.23% in October

    Eswatini bread prices will rise by 4.23% starting October 1 following Cabinet approval to address rising production and fuel costs for local bakeries.

Sources

eswatiniobserver.com · thesource.africa · thesouthafrican.com · times.co.sz