During a four-day visit to Martinique, French Overseas Minister François-Noël Buffet announced a 20% reduction on over 6,000 essential goods starting January 1, 2025, supported by VAT exemptions. This initiative aims to address rising living costs but faces skepticism regarding price control measures, particularly given concerns about transparency among local distribution groups controlling 80% of the market. Criticism surrounds the focus on food prices while neglecting other significant expenses. The visit was marred by unrest, culminating in the arrest of a protest leader, sparking renewed violence and injuries to law enforcement.

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