In France, how to fight against economic monopolies in the Overseas Territories? Gérald Darmanin Minister of the Interior and Overseas, visiting French Polynesia, announced the launch of a mission to fight against these monopolies. Very numerous in the overseas territories, they are one of the causes of the high cost of living.
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The high cost of living in the Overseas Territories is a subject that has been coming up for many years during ministerial visits. A subject that hits the inhabitants of these territories hard since the price differences with mainland France are abysmal: +15.8% in Guadeloupe, +33% in New Caledonia, certain everyday products go up to +50 %. These are consequences of economic monopolies.
Overseas territories remain small markets for companies that are reluctant to establish themselves there. Without competition, the prices charged skyrocket. A way out must be found, according to Gérald Darmanin – Minister of the Interior and Overseas – alerted by Polynesian President Moetai Brotherson. “ I will launch a mission as soon as I return to Paris with Philippe Vigier, Minister for Overseas France, to take stock of the monopolies “, starting with French Polynesia, said Gérald Darmanin during an interview granted Saturday, August 19 in Papeete to the local television channels Polynésie la 1ère and TNTV.
” I hear President Brotherson, when he invites us to fight against economic monopolies. There are too many economic monopolies in Overseas France in general and in French Polynesia “, he assured. ” We are going to suggest to President Brotherson that we fight together against these monopolies, because when there are monopolies, there are very high prices and when there are very high prices, it is the everyday Polynesians who are unable to make it out “, added the Minister of the Interior.
Additional logistical costs related to remoteness
Local employers insist on the additional logistical costs caused by remoteness. During a parliamentary commission of inquiry conducted in June at the National Assembly, maritime carriers such as the giant CMA-CGM were singled out. They claim to represent only 5% of the purchase cost.
A “cost of living” file where everyone passes the buck and which may not leave the luggage of visiting ministers anytime soon.
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(and with AFP)