【环球财经】文莱经济规划与统计局：正积极采取前瞻性措施保护市场价格稳定

Core Insights - Brunei's recent food price increases reflect multiple challenges faced globally and locally, prompting proactive measures to ensure public welfare and market supply stability [1][2] - The report from the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics (DEPS) indicates significant price hikes in essential food items compared to pre-COVID-19 levels, including frozen minced beef, fresh lamb, chili, tomatoes, and cooking oil [1] - Brunei's inflation performance is relatively moderate compared to regional countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Singapore, attributed to government policies such as price monitoring, subsidies, and supply chain diversification [1][2] Summary by Sections Price Trends - Essential food prices in Brunei have significantly increased when comparing June 2025 to average prices before the COVID-19 pandemic [1] - Specific items experiencing price hikes include frozen minced beef, fresh lamb, chili, tomatoes, and cooking oil [1] Causes of Price Increases - Price increases are influenced by global factors such as supply chain disruptions, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, as well as local conditions like high production costs and limited production scale [1] - The DEPS emphasizes that despite price increases, the overall inflation rate in Brunei remains manageable [1] Government Response - To ensure long-term price stability, Brunei must address underlying issues driving food price increases through comprehensive measures [2] - Suggested measures include diversifying import sources, such as sourcing cooking oil from multiple countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, to avoid over-reliance on single suppliers [2] - Strengthening regional supply chain capabilities and leveraging free trade agreements and bilateral partnerships are also recommended to secure competitive and stable supply sources [2] Demographics and Economic Context - Brunei, located in northern Borneo, has a population of approximately 346,000 citizens, 26,000 permanent residents, and 82,000 foreign workers as of 2024 [2] - The country maintains a trade surplus due to its rich oil and gas resources, contributing to a high level of social welfare [2]