DTI rules out 'shrinkflation' in 190 basic goods

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Wednesday assured consumers that manufacturers would maintain the product quantities of 190 monitored basic necessities and prime commodities, ruling out "shrinkflation" among products covered by commitments to keep prices unchanged.

DTI Secretary Maria Cristina Aldeguer-Roque said manufacturers would not reduce the size, weight or quantity of their products while keeping retail prices the same, a practice known as "shrinkflation."

“There will be no such practice. The product quantities will remain the same,” she said in an interview on GMA Super Radyo DZBB.

Roque last month said manufacturers had committed to maintaining the prices of basic necessities and prime commodities until the end of the year.

“Manufacturers know the current situation so this is the way of operating and this is also the way to assist and to help also,” Roque said in a mix of English and Filipino.

The DTI has set suggested retail prices for basic necessities such as canned sardines, milk and coffee products, bread, instant noodles, salt, bottled water, detergent and laundry soap, and candles.

The price commitments also cover prime commodities such as luncheon meat, meat loaf, corned beef, beef loaf, condiments, toilet soap and batteries.

“This is nationwide. No price increase until December 31, 2026, from Luzon to Mindanao. The DTI monitors prices nationwide through its regional offices and conducts weekly price checks. So far, there have been no violations,” Roque said.—Jon Viktor D. Cabuenas/MCG, GMA News

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