VIENTIANE, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Lao Ministry of Industry and Commerce has collaborated with local companies to sell commonly used consumer items at lower prices, as part of its efforts to alleviate the impact of rising food prices.
The current unfavorable currency exchange rates, high inflation and the weak Lao currency kip are all driving prices higher, Lao National Radio reported on Wednesday.
The Lao government has taken steps to address the situation. The sale of common household items at discount prices is another effort to ease the burden on local residents.
Specific items will be on sale at 17 locations in Lao capital Vientiane on Sept. 26-30.
Moreover, the government is reportedly considering expanding the scheme to other provinces and has instructed relevant authorities to take urgent measures to address the economic woes.
In particular, the government has ordered the Ministry of Industry and Commerce to keep a lid on the spiraling price of consumer goods.
In another attempt to provide household staples at lower prices, the Lao government is selling stockpiled rice at a slightly lower price than the current market rate.
The price of rice, the staple for every household, has risen sharply over the past year, along with the price of many other food items and consumer goods. ■
