MONROVIA, LIBERIA-Vigorous inspection of targeted businesses around Montserrado is ongoing to ensure compliance with government-mandated price reduction on essential commodities.

 The inspection headed by Commerce Minister Magdalene Dagoseh is targeting rice price, which is mandated by the government to be sold at 14 United States Dollars, 50-cents.

But following reports that retailers are selling rice above the stipulated price, Commerce Minister Dagoseh launched a stern campaign to ensure total compliance with the government price.

As part of that exercise, Minister Dagoseh and her commerce inspectors are also inspecting cold-storage businesses to weed out rotten and expired fresh products from the Liberian market.

Four major businesses were temporarily shut down in Duala on Thursday, for selling expired or rotten fresh products, and for price hiking of cement and rice products.

Commerce Minister Dagoseh has vowed to ensure all business houses are in full compliance with the government-laid-down policy for prices of goods and standards in the Liberian market.

The inspections began in central Montserrado, specifically in the Rally Town and the Old Road markets, where several shops caught in violation were immediately shut down by the commerce minister and team.

On Thursday, the commerce minister led the team to Duala and Fiamma, where business houses were caught violating national commerce policy and selling rotten and expired fresh foods- they were immediately shut down by the inspection team.

Beyond rice, the team is inspecting for expired goods, proper pricing structures, and general compliance with business laws.