By Zamzam Osman - Reporter
Djibouti, 16 November 2025 - The Government of Djibouti has issued a strong warning to traders and shop owners who fail to comply with the official prices of essential food items set by the Ministry of Trade and Tourism, following an extensive inspection of markets and food storage facilities in Hayo town, Obock region.
The inspection, carried out on Saturday by monitors from the Ministry of Trade and Tourism and funded by the World Bank, focused on food reserves, market conditions, and whether traders were adhering to the official price controls established by the government.
Officials from the ministry and the Obock Regional Administration said that Hayo’s food reserves are adequate and stressed that no trader will be allowed to illegally increase the price of basic food commodities that directly affect low-income households.
The items inspected included rice, cooking oils, sugar, milk, and other essential food products.
More from Djibouti
During the inspection, monitors found that several traders and shopkeepers were not following the official price guidelines, leading the ministry to impose penalties.
The Director General of the Ministry of Trade, Abdi Farah Qayaad, speaking to the media, said the government will continue consistent monitoring to protect consumers.
“This project, funded by the World Bank, is part of the efforts to safeguard food supply chains. If we find traders who do not respect the prices set by the Ministry, fines will be imposed every time.”
He added that the ministry is always ready to take action against anyone who exploits citizens by violating the approved essential-commodity prices.
More from Djibouti
DP Kindiki's Warning: Curb Political Posturing, Fast-Track Ruto's Unity Drive
Nov 16, 2025
News
Read more →
Ruto Expands Nationwide Decentralisation Drive With New Administrative Units in Marsabit
Nov 16, 2025
News
Read more →
Parliament Begins Review of Somalia’s $1.37bn Budget Proposal
Nov 16, 2025
News
Read more →
