The Chinese government is taking measures to minimize price
fluctuations of certain goods in some regions that have been
brought about by the spread of the severe acute respiratory
syndrome (SARS).
According to a circular issued by the State Development and Reform
Commission (SDRC), which is responsible for price supervision,
price changes of medicine, medical equipment, food and other
materials related to public health should be closely followed by
local price authorities.
The SDRC urged departments concerned at various levels to report
dramatic fluctuations in a timely manner and to set price ceilings
or take other appropriate measures to stabilize prices if
necessary. Legal sanctions will be imposed on transactions that
disturb the market order.
The SDRC encouraged consumers to report any abnormal price
increases by calling the nationwide hot line at 12358. It also
encouraged both wholesalers and retailers to abide by the law,
exercise self-discipline, standardize their prices and mark prices
clearly.
(Xinhua News Agency April 17, 2003)
