MINICOM Removes VAT on Maize Flour and Rice to Tackle Rising Food Prices

On Wednesday, the Rwandan Ministry of Trade and Industry announced the removal of Value-added tax (VAT) on some food items in response to concerns over the recent rise in prices. The government has waived VAT on maize flour and rice and set new maximum prices for these items, as well as Irish potatoes.

After analyzing the market and consulting with public institutions and private sector partners, the ministry of Trade waived VAT on these food items to positively impact consumption behavior and relieve the burden of rising prices.

Residents expressed their appreciation for the move to reduce prices and remove VAT, as they believe this will make these essential food items more affordable and accessible.

 "This means that if the price of rice is 800 Rwandan Francs, it's a good change, and if Irish potato prices go down, it is a good change as well as maize flour. This means there will be no hunger because the prices are affordable," said Emile Sanane, a resident in Kigali.

Minani Janvier, another Kigali resident, said, "There is a way one goes to the market and finds prices high, and you buy like one kilogram in the money that you went to the market expecting to get two kilograms. It's like the currency was devalued

Jesca MUTAMBA