DON’T EXPECT SCHOOL SUPPLIES here to get as affordable as those in the United States anytime soon, say a Government minister and two businessmen.
They agree that because Barbados is a small market, the volume of imports is not high enough to get better prices. Plus, shipping items from far-flung destinations is a major cost factor, and the rates of duty of these items are often lower in the US compared to here.
Where they disagree is on what can be done locally to reduce prices.
Minister of Commerce Donville Inniss recommends that, wherever possible, merchants should seek to buy direct from main suppliers to reduce the need for middlemen and eliminate some costs, but acknowledged doing so risked non-delivery and poor customer care post-purchase.
Please read the full story in today’s Sunday Sun, or in the eNATION edition.