By Sylvia
Commodity prices in Fort Portal City have remained largely stable despite the ongoing fuel crisis in Uganda that has pushed transport costs upward in many parts of the country.
A spot check conducted across key markets, including Kabundaire, Mpanga, and Katale Kenjara, revealed that most vendors have maintained their prices, opting not to pass on the increased fuel costs to consumers.
Traders attribute this decision to the low purchasing power among customers. Many say raising prices at this time would hurt sales, as consumers are already struggling with the high cost of living.
Kemigisa Doreen, a shopkeeper at Kabundaire Market, noted that essential goods such as sugar, soap, salt, and cooking oil are still being sold at their usual prices. She explained that increasing prices could discourage buyers and lead to unsold stock.
Similarly, Kyomuhendo Enoch, a local butcher, said the price of meat has remained unchanged despite rising transport costs for moving cattle from animal markets. He emphasized that increasing meat prices would drive customers away, leaving traders with losses due to unsold products.
However, not all sectors have managed to absorb the impact of the fuel crisis. Timber dealers in the area have raised prices, citing increased transportation expenses as the main reason for the adjustment.
While the situation remains manageable for now, traders warn that sustained increases in fuel prices could eventually force them to revise commodity prices if transport and supply costs continue to rise