Speaking at a meeting for importers, Mr Vassallo said the government could not accept that importers increase their prices, especially on products which were imported a while ago.

Mr Vassallo specifically referred to the price of sugar, and told his listeners “not to buy expensive sugar”. He said that even though the price orders are not any longer being used, the government reserves the right to issue a price order on sugar and importers would not be able to increase their prices of imported sugar.

He insisted, especially with members of the media present for the meeting, that this was the information he had up to that moment, as the information is constantly changing.

Mr Vassallo also spoke about the importation of several products and local competition.

He said that if local producers continue to offer high-standard, fresh products, they should not worry that they will lose their share of the market. However, high standards must be maintained, he said.

Several other issues were discussed during yesterday’s meeting, which was the third for importers.

The aim of these meetings, according to Mr Vassallo, was the exchange of vital information.

Representatives of several government departments were invited to attend the meeting to reply to the importers’ questions and difficulties.

Mr Vassallo promised to listen to their complaints and reduce, as much as possible, any problems they may encounter, adding that his aim is for consumers to receive a better service while getting good value for money.