CARACAS, Monday November 02, 2009 | Update
Economy
The cost of the family food basket increased to USD 879 (at the official exchange rate) in October. This implies a 2 percent increase compared to September, according to a recent study by the Center for Documentation and Social Analysis (Cenda) of the Venezuelan Federation of Teachers.
The annual variation is 24.8 percent, which represents USD 174.85, said a press release.
Eight of the eleven items included in the food basket increased their price: ketchup and mayonnaise, roots, tubers and others; sugar and salt; coffee; milk, cheeses and eggs; cereals and related products; meat and meat preparations; fruits and vegetables.
Two food groups kept the same price as the previous month: fish and seafood and beans, peas and lentils, while fats and oils decreased compared to September.
04:20 PM. Western Hemisphere. Colombian President Álvaro Uribe said on Tuesday that governments should ensure citizens' rights to live on the border, in reference to a political and diplomatic crisis with Venezuela and its effects on border residents.