The Executive announced the removal of taxes on imported rice to ease household budgets during the lean season. However, consumers have yet to feel the effects on markets. One week after the announcement of tax relief on imported luxury rice, prices remain virtually unchanged in markets. "This measure has had no effect on prices. Luxury rice still sells for 2,700 ariary per kilo, just as before," remarked Liana Ramisason, a mother of three who shopped at a grocery store in Ampasampito yesterday. In Anosibe, wholesale prices have also shown no significant change. "There's only a slight drop of around 5,000 ariary per 50 kg bag," noted Jean-Baptiste Randrianimanana, a wholesaler in Anosibe. The price of "stock" rice initially rose from 96,000 to 120,000 ariary per bag after the application of 20% customs duties and 5% VAT. In recent days, it has slightly declined to 114,000 ariary. As for luxury rice, originally sold at 105,000 ariary, its price climbed to 130,000 ariary before stabilizing around 125,000 ariary. "Our current stock was purchased when taxes were still in effect. That's why we cannot offer significant reductions at the moment," continued Jean-Baptiste Randrianimanana. The announced tax relief should not have an immediate market impact. "This measure only came into effect a week ago; it will only apply to future shipments. The product currently on the market still comes from the previous cargo," explained Rufin Zafimihary, director of competition and market regulation (DCRM) at the Ministry of Commerce and Consumption. Future shipments are not expected until one or two months, around late September or October. "We are still awaiting requests from importers," continued this official. He emphasized that imports must remain regulated. "What will be imported must necessarily be adjusted according to available stock quantities," the source explained. Madagascar has already imported nearly 350,000 tonnes of rice since January. Approximately 330,000 additional tonnes are still needed until year-end. The Executive decided to temporarily suspend fiscal measures applied to imported rice. "This measure was taken to address the lean season. In March, local rice should again be abundant on the market, and taxes will be reinstated," explained this official.