Consumers are today digging deeper in their pockets to buy flour.

The National Flour Mills says the wholesale price increases by 33%.

There is also a suggested 28% average retail price increase.

NFM says a 2-kilogram bag of Ibis flour will cost $18.93, up from $14.77.

The company’s Chief Executive Officer Ian Mitchell says with flour being an important ingredient new sources have been found…. but at a price.

He admitted this increase could impact other sectors using flour. 

President of the Supermarket Association Rajiv Diptee the NFM’s decision is a blow to the consumer.

He says it was expected.

NFM last raised its prices on flour in January this year.

And in the Senate yesterday, Trade Minister Paula Gopee Scoon was asked to explain the government’s plan to deal with the rising cost of living.

The question came from Senator Wade Mark.

Senator Gopee Scoon said there are many items, which have been VAT zero rated.

She also explained that the Central Bank in March gave some good news on inflation in Trinidad and Tobago.

She responded during the question for oral answer segment.