The government will introduce additional measures this week to alleviate the burden of grocery prices ahead of Chuseok, including discounts on agricultural and livestock products and an increase in seafood supply.
On September 7, the Ministry of Economy and Finance reported that Deputy Minister Lee Hyung-il visited the Gatchisan Market in Seoul to assess the supply trends of Chuseok essential goods and to review the implementation of the 'Chuseok Livelihood Stabilization Measures' announced on September 1.
Previously, the government decided to supply a record 183,000 tons of essential goods for Chuseok and to provide 103 billion won in government discounts. The supply of essential goods will be 1.6 times the normal level.
From September 16 to 20, a program will be held at traditional markets where customers can receive a refund of approximately 30% of their purchase amount in Onnuri gift certificates for 300 items of agricultural and livestock products and seafood. The refund limit is set at 20,000 won per person.
The government has also increased the supply of vegetables and fruits to more than three times the normal level. For popular fish species such as mackerel and pollock, the government is supplying 20,000 tons from its reserves at prices up to 40% lower than market rates.
Deputy Minister Lee emphasized, “The government will do its utmost to reduce the burden of grocery prices through the expanded supply of essential goods and discount support,” adding that additional measures for the 'Chuseok Livelihood Stabilization Measures,' including discounts on agricultural and livestock products and increased seafood supply, will be finalized and announced this week.
Before visiting the market, Deputy Minister Lee held a meeting with leaders of various small business organizations, including the Small Business Association and the Korea Restaurant Association, at a digital education center for small business owners to discuss management challenges and policy suggestions.
During the meeting, he stressed the importance of supporting the stability and growth of small businesses to alleviate economic polarization, stating, “We will make every effort to ensure that the warmth of growth reaches all small business owners.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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