Controllers conduct rigorous controls of supermarkets and business that sell hurricane items

PHILIPSBURG — Minister Responsible for Economic Affairs Mellissa Arrindell-Doncher has dispatched the controllers of the Economic Control Department to conduct rigorous controls of supermarkets and businesses that sell hurricane items.

After reports of exorbitant prices, the Minister had already warned last week that any business caught price gouging will be severely fined. The Minister also announced that the list of the max prices for hurricane items is available for download on government’s website (www.sintmaartengov.org) under the “announcements” section of the website. This will also be available via the Government of St. Maarten Facebook page.

For complaints against businesses selling listed goods higher than the established maximum price, please submit a copy of the invoice, your name and contact information to the Inspectorate of TEATT located at Tamarindesteeg #16, Yellow Building or email: idez.inquiries@sintmaartengov.org.

The Minister also used the opportunity to praise the Economic Controllers for being dedicated to their task even while some have suffered personal damage after hurricane Irma. “Despite their personal circumstances, the controllers are out there performing their duties and making sure that business abide by the law. I want to express my heartfelt thanks to them for such dedication,” the Minister said.

Photo caption: Economic Controllers in the field performing their duties. Photos provided by the Cabinet of the Minister of TEATT.