Central bank reports critical shortage of six staples at the end of 2012

The Central Bank of Venezuela's shortage index revealed serious shortage of six basic staples at the end of 2012, above 40%, in the Metropolitan Area of Caracas. 

The shortage index showed the following results per every 100 shops visited: pre-cooked corn flour, 43.3%; wheat flour, 76.8%; edible sunflower oil, 86.1%; edible corn oil, 56.8%; edible mixed vegetable oil, 67.1%; sugar, 78.1%

According to the BCV's index, nine basic staples recorded serious shortage (21-40%) in December, namely chicken, 21.5%; jam, 36.6%; white cheese, 29.7%; powder and liquid milk, 32.2-22.1%, respectively.

The overall shortage index was reported at 16% in December, according to the central bank. 

Despite the results, the Superintendent of Costs and Fair Prices, Karlin Granadillo, said that basic staples supply is normal in the country and rejected claims of food shortage.

Translated by Jhean Cabrera