The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the National Association of Sachet and Packaged Water Producers (NASPAWAP) has recommended all its members to review the prices of their products upward.

In a press release signed by the National President, Magnus Nunoo, the Association stated that among other things, sachet water will be sold at 40pesewas, while 500ml bottled water, previously sold at ¢1, will now be sold at ¢1.50.

The new prices will take effect from Monday, December 27, 2021. 

“It is recommended that the 500ml bottled water be retailed at ¢1.50, and the 750ml or medium size bottled water be retailed at ¢2.00. In addition, the 1.5L or large bottled water is to be retailed at ¢3.50,” parts of the statement read.

The Association added, “iced sachet water will be retailed at ¢0.40. A bag of sachet water, 500ml by 30 pieces, will now sell at ¢4.50 from the retail trucks. Mini shops will now retail a bag of sachet at ¢6 per bag minimum.”

They explained that the price review has been necessitated by the rising cost of inputs, including fuel, vehicle spare parts, and packaging materials, which are mainly imported.

The Association urged all members to review their prices accordingly to ensure uniformity across the country, stressing that in the past, producers bore part or all of these taxes to survive. However, it is becoming increasingly unsustainable for the local water industry.

“Regrettably, fuel price reviews attract a lot of public outcry anytime the government imposes the slightest tax on it. However, the public turns a blind eye to taxes on bottled water, which account for the high prices consumers have to bear,” the Association added.