NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh is advocating for a price cap on essential grocery store items, expressing frustration with what he describes as corporations exploiting Canadians through price gouging.
In a statement made on June 3, Singh emphasized the need for immediate action if the Liberal government fails to convince grocery chains to reduce prices voluntarily. He cited successful implementations of similar measures in some European countries.
Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne acknowledged exploring the idea but voiced concerns about its feasibility. “Global commodities like sugar and wheat are traded internationally, making regional price caps challenging,” Champagne remarked on Tuesday. “Instead, we should continue pressuring grocers and large manufacturers and promote more competition.”
For several months, the Liberal government has been urging major Canadian grocers to adopt a code of conduct aimed at reducing food prices. Champagne has also been working to attract foreign grocery chains to Canada to increase market competition. “Introducing a new player could help shake up the market and lead to better prices,” he said.
Despite a recent easing of some food costs due to declining inflation, the NDP argues that prices have not decreased sufficiently compared to the significant rises over the past three years. They accuse grocery stores of prioritizing profits over consumers’ needs.
“We’re talking about an essential basket of goods that should be affordable for Canadians,” Singh asserted on Tuesday. “If grocery stores fail to lower prices, we will impose a price cap.”