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)
