Government Implements Price Freeze in Mayotte Following Cyclone Chido
In response to the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido, which struck Mayotte on December 14, 2024, the French government has enacted a decree to freeze the prices of essential consumer products in the archipelago. This measure, published in the Official Journal on December 19, 2024, comes as the region faces a state of "exceptional natural calamity". The cyclone, described as the most intense to hit Mayotte in 90 years, resulted in significant destruction, with winds exceeding 220 km/h, leading to 31 confirmed deaths and over 1,373 injuries, according to preliminary reports from the Ministry of the Interior.
The price freeze is aimed at preventing further financial strain on residents already grappling with the aftermath of the cyclone. The decree stipulates that prices for a range of products—including mineral water, food items, beverages, hygiene products, batteries, construction materials, and animal feed—will be controlled. Specifically, prices cannot exceed those recorded on December 13, 2024, or the nearest earlier date for each establishment in Mayotte.
Scope and Implementation of the Price Control
The price control measures apply to all stages of distribution, including wholesale, retail, online sales, and producer sales. The prefect of Mayotte is empowered to establish maximum prices for similar businesses based on average prices observed prior to the cyclone. This comprehensive approach is designed to stabilize the market and ensure that essential goods remain accessible to the local population during this critical recovery period.
As aid begins to flow into the region, the government is under pressure to address the urgent supply challenges, particularly concerning water and basic necessities. President Emmanuel Macron is expected to visit Mayotte soon to assess the situation and coordinate further assistance efforts. The decree reflects the government's commitment to supporting the Mahorais in the face of this disaster, providing a necessary boost to the community as they begin to rebuild their lives.
