The Polish government plans to release 1,000 tonnes of butter from strategic reserves to combat rising prices, sparking public debate over potential parallels to PRL-era policies.
In response to soaring butter prices driven by a global milk shortage, the Polish Governmental Agency for Strategic Reserves (RARS) has announced plans to release approximately 1,000 tonnes of frozen butter from its food reserves. The butter, packaged in 25 kg blocks, will be auctioned with a minimum price set at 28.38 PLN per kilogram (excluding VAT). The auction is scheduled for December 19, 2024.
This intervention aims to stabilize the domestic market and ensure the availability of essential goods for citizens. However, the move has sparked public debate, with some drawing parallels to the rationing practices of the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) era. Critics argue that such measures reflect a regression to past economic policies, while supporters view it as a necessary step to address current market challenges.
The government’s decision underscores the ongoing impact of global supply chain disruptions on local economies and the complexities involved in balancing market interventions with public perception.