In response to concerns raised about non-compliance with regulated prices and the taxation applied to peanuts, Minister Serigne Guèye Diop provided detailed clarifications during a public address. He emphasized the State's firm stance regarding sanctions, while also reviewing the price-setting mechanisms and tax measures implemented to support the peanut sector.

According to the minister, any violation related to non-compliance with approved prices will expose offenders to immediate and dissuasive sanctions. "Very heavy fines will be applied. Stocks can be seized in their entirety and, in the most serious cases, the business in question can be closed," he warned, emphasizing the authorities' determination to put an end to speculative practices.

An institutional mechanism for price control

Serigne Guèye Diop reiterated that price setting and control are based on a rigorous process involving several bodies. The National Consumer Council plays a central role. When a price revision is considered, a study is first conducted at the international level, followed by statistical projections on price trends over six and twelve months.

Based on this, a technical committee is convened, and the minister issues a decree, after approval by the Council of Ministers, to set the new prices. Once the decision is made at the national level, regional consumer councils intervene to incorporate transport costs and adapt the measures to local conditions.

This mechanism applies to several strategic products, including hydrocarbons such as diesel and gasoline.

However, the minister clarified that the pharmaceutical sector is subject to a special rule: drug prices remain uniform across the entire national territory.

Tax abolition and support for the peanut sector

Regarding peanuts, Serigne Guèye Diop was keen to clear up any ambiguity. He confirmed the elimination of the previously applied 40 CFA franc tax, a measure intended to strengthen the competitiveness of Senegalese exports, particularly to China.

He also mentioned the price difference between the actual price paid to producers, set at 250 CFA francs, and the reference price, which reached 305 CFA francs, or even 350 CFA francs depending on the period. This difference, estimated at 80 CFA francs, will be covered by the State.

"This amount will be reimbursed to both SONACOS and other oil producers," the minister assured, specifying that this measure aims to support all players in the sector and to guarantee a balance between producers, processors and exporters.

A message of firmness and clarification

Through these clarifications, Serigne Guèye Diop reaffirmed the State's commitment to enforcing regulated prices, while also supporting strategic sectors such as the peanut industry. This represents a dual message of firmness and support, in a context marked by challenges related to purchasing power and food security.