CBS: Consumer prices on Saba and Statia 10 and 7 percent higher than on Bonaire

In 2015, consumer prices on Saba and St Eustatius are respectively 10 and 7 percent higher than on Bonaire. The previous price level survey was conducted in 2010. Consumer prices on Saba and St Eustatius were then respectively 8 and 2 percent higher than on Bonaire for the average basket of consumer products. Saba still is the most expensive island for consumers, as the price level survey conducted by Statistics Netherlands (CBS) shows.

Water most expensive on Saba, gas most expensive on St Eustatius

The most obvious price differences between the various islands are found in the category ‘housing repair and maintenance, water and energy’. Residents of Saba and St Eustatius pay more for water and gas than residents of Bonaire. Residents of Saba pay the highest price for water; gas is most expensive on St Eustatius.

Prices of food products and soft drinks are on average 9 percent higher on Saba than on Bonaire. On St Eustatius prices of communication services are 17 percent more expensive than on Bonaire. This is mainly due to the fact that internet connections on St Eustatius are more expensive. Alcoholic drinks and tobacco are relatively cheap on St Eustatius and Saba. Unlike on Bonaire, these islands do not impose excise duty on alcoholic drinks and tobacco.

Price level survey

For the price level survey on Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba, a representative basket of goods and services distributed across various product groups was determined. The products are defined accurately in order to facilitate comparison between similar products. Over the period May-September 2015, prices of these products were recorded on the three islands. House rents are not included in the survey.

Press release RCN