For example, (i) even before it has stopped raining you can bet on hearing some knowledgeable analyst predict a hefty rise in fruit and vegetable prices; (ii) similarly, the slightest congestion on the ports also brings a prediction of large price increases – even though port charges may be a miniscule share of the product prices.
Drawing from the experience of the last oil boom, an even greater concern is the potential for intensified wage pressures. In this regard, I hope I am misreading the current industrial relations climate. I would now like to make some comments on the recent developments in the foreign exchange market (in which the Chamber has, not unexpectedly, an intense interest).