As the nation prepares to hear the details of the National Budget today, one economist says don’t expect too much about rising food prices.

Marlene Atzs this morning said there are several factors, which are connected to the reality of increasing prices on goods and services.

President of the Supermarkets Association Rajiv Diptee has lamented the rising cost of food.

But he says the hike in prices cannot be blamed on retailers.

Mr. Diptee says local retailers and importers have no control over the prices they are being given.

On The Morning Show on i95.5fm Ms. Atzs among the areas, which are likely to be touched by the Minister of Finance, is expenditure, particularly in the health sector.

Ms. Atzs said the government’s spending must be curbed and members of the public will see the need to do the same.