Reduction in Commodity Prices expected to follow

The Department of State for Works, Construction and Infrastructure yesterday issued a press release on behalf of the government of The Gambia announcing the reduction of tariffs on the cost of goods and services by Gambia International Airlines (GIA), Gambia Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA). The statement, proffering the purpose for the move, noted that it is in line with government’s national strategy for poverty alleviation and to enhance the conduct of trade and transport with a view to making The Gambia more competitive in the aviation and marine transport sub-sectors. The release further stated that government has with immediate effect decided to reduce tariff on landing, handling and passenger charges, as well as navigation fees, parking and lighting fees.

The statement also announced a reduction on share handling charges by the same amount on major consumer goods such as rice, sugar, cement, flour, and steel roads, tomato paste, cooking oil and all other basic commodities. By the same token, storage charges on all items have also been reduced by 55%.

"It is expected that this reduction will not only add value to the operations of GIA, GCAA, and GPA, but will also translate into cheaper and more affordable goods and services to the Gambian people and beyond," added the release. The private sector was especially urged to take advantage of the opportunities that would accrue as a result of this reduction.

The public is informed that the reduction will only lead to improvements in the socio-economic well-being of the Gambian people in line with vision 2020 objectives, the release concludes.