Minister Geoffrey Wever emphasized that he has never criticized local merchants or accused them of abusing product prices. He explained that in a small economy like Aruba, where nearly all goods are imported, the final product cost is determined primarily by the international market, as well as shipping, insurance, and import duties.
“Global market conditions directly affect prices on our island,” Minister Wever stated in an interview with Matutino DIARIO. “Merchants also have to add a margin to cover their operating costs and remain sustainable. It’s not accurate to assume that they raise prices at will — they’re also working hard to stay afloat.”
He acknowledged that while prices remain high for consumers, this is not due to price abuse by merchants, as is often claimed. He added that the Department of Economic Affairs performs regular inspections to ensure compliance with government pricing policies.
“I believe there’s still some misunderstanding in our community,” he said. “There’s a difference between products sold at market-driven prices and those in the basic needs basket, which are regulated by the government. For the latter, the government determines how much profit merchants can make.”
Minister Wever stressed that daily price controls are carried out across supermarkets, and violations are minimal. “We monitor all supermarkets strictly. When a violation occurs, we intervene immediately, and the prices are corrected. Merchants comply right away,” he added.
He concluded by reaffirming that the government limits merchant profit margins for basic goods, ensuring that no one earns beyond what the law allows.
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