In light of the ongoing increase in food prices across Croatia, a significant number of citizens are currently participating in a boycott of shopping at stores, retail chains, and gas stations, according to reports from Croatian media.

The Tax Administration has indicated that as of 11 a.m. today, there has been a 40 percent drop in invoices at retail outlets compared to last Friday, with the total value of these invoices being reduced by as much as 47 percent.

This boycott initiative was instigated by the Facebook group “Hello, Inspector,” which has received support from the European Center for Consumer Excellence (ECIP), alongside consumer protection organizations, labor unions, political parties, and various government ministers.

Finance Minister Marko Primorac stated that the Government has implemented numerous measures to alleviate inflationary pressures and urged all market participants—from producers to retailers—to act responsibly.

“Our request has been for every participant in the production process to explore ways to maintain lower prices, particularly for food items. Regarding the boycott, I believe it is not the Government’s role to organize or advocate for such actions; however, as a citizen and consumer, I completely empathize with the sentiment and will refrain from shopping today,” the minister highlighted, as reported by HRT.

While various unions, consumer groups, and some political figures, both in power and in opposition, are encouraging citizens to refrain from making purchases, traders and business owners are voicing their concerns, with many planning significant discounts exclusive to January 24th, as noted by Croatian Radio and Television (HRT).

The Voice of Entrepreneurs association has criticized the government for leaving the task of tackling inflation to individuals and business owners.

News