12 April 2025, 14:34

Lukashenko: Businesses should not inflate prices

An archive photo

MINSK, 12 April (BelTA) – Businesses should not inflate prices, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said as he spoke with journalists during the national clean-up day on 12 April, BelTA has learned.

The head of state remarked that it was a wise decision to come to grips with prices and develop a fair price formula in Belarus. “What did this lead to? First of all, our producers, especially very smart business people, realized that the process was under control, so they couldn't do whatever they please, because otherwise they would be taken to task or even thrown in jail. They were invited to jointly chart a course of action to ensure a fair situation in the market,” the president said.

Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that this approach is not aimed against any types of business. Neither does it seek to destroy them. After all, the private business generates a significant share of budget revenues. For example, it contributes about half to the Minsk's budget, and about 40% across the country. “I don't want us to play havoc with businesses. Why kill the goose that lays golden eggs? I understand that perfectly well. That's why I want people to engage in entrepreneurship, create something, do something, and so on, but not at the expense of others. They should not cash in on those who have built this country for us, i.e. today's pensioners, as well teachers, doctors...” the head of state emphasized.

The president noted that when the government began to control the pricing process and demand a fair approach, some in the trade sector tried to wriggle their way out of it. For example, founders of large retail chains devised a number of ways to pay themselves huge cash bonuses.

“They must pay taxes honestly and fairly and pay their employees... I want justice. Our approach somewhat differs from that of some other countries, including leading nations of the world. This is their business, though. But our people want justice, this is in their blood. This is the core feature of Slavic nations,” said Aleksandr Lukashenko.