“Opportunity cost” (October 7) provided interesting background to the cost-ofliving crisis and also set it in a historical context. However, the article contained few solutions. Here are two I wish to offer those in power.
1) Pass a law that prohibits companies like Fonterra, as well as meat, fish, timber and wool companies, from selling their products on the domestic market based on world market prices. These industries would need to create local alternatives. This would enable the reintroduction of co-operatives and other local enterprises and significantly lower domestic prices for those goods. It would not be permitted to export goods intended for domestic consumption.
2) Pass a law that would prohibit retail sales on credit, with all its countless buy now, pay later variations. In a short time, this would free up millions in domestic spending on consumer goods, encourage savings and create many opportunities for enterprising people – such as the reintroduction of repair services, encouragement for recycling and upcycling, and the spurring on of the secondhand market.
Of course, individuals can still save by the suggested methods in the article –
