By Francis Chipalo
Some liquor traders in Lusaka have called on government to interven on alleged cartels in the alcohol business.
Following reported shortage of alcoholic brands such as Castle Lite, Black Label and similar brands, some liquor traders have hinted Lusaka Radio news that foreign nationals running similar business have formed cartels and are purchasing alcohol in bulk.
A trader from Kaunda Square market complained that the move has killed bar and pub owners whose businesses were “small” and incapable of competing with the cartels.
The concerned trader who spoke on condition of anonymity says small businesses like her’s are struggling to get stock from distribution points as treatment is given to cartels who usually purchase the entire truckloads of alcohol.
Similar sentiments were shared by traders at the small market in Chelstone.
The affected beer traders have since called for fair trading practices in the industry.
And a check by a Lusaka Radio news crew discovered that alcohol prices for Largers have been increased to K15 for small largers from K12 for Mosi, Black Label and Castle Lite whilst big bottles for similar brands are fetching upto K30 from the previous K20 which has been the standard price in most drinking spots.
Numerous press queries to Zambia Breweries as to whether production at their plant had reduced and thereby leading to a reported product shortage have fallen on deaf ears.
