HARARE, Mar. 20 (NewsDay Live) – The price of a standard loaf of bread has risen nationwide, with a snap survey showing it now selling for between US$1 and US$1.17, as higher fuel costs ripple through production and distribution.
Bakers cite escalating transport and input costs linked to recent fuel price hikes.
Bakers Association of Zimbabwe president Elvis Ncube confirmed the increase, saying production costs continue to climb.
“Costs of production are increasing, which is pushing prices up. It is up to individual bakers to set their prices. We have multiple cost drivers. Currently, the recommended retail price is US$1.10,” Ncube said.
He added that the pressure extends beyond fuel.
“When we talk of cost escalation, we are not referring to fuel only. Wages are rising, suppliers have increased prices for materials, and fuel is also required for production and distribution,” he said.
Bakers, who rely heavily on daily distribution networks, say the combined impact of higher fuel costs, wage pressures and more expensive raw materials is squeezing margins and forcing price adjustments.
The latest increases are likely to deepen cost-of-living pressures on households already grappling with rising prices of basic commodities.
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