One of the country’s largest wholesalers has called on customers not to panic buy as there is more than enough supplies in store for everyone during the coronavirus state of emergency.

A statement from the management of Ah Liki Wholesale says there is enough food supply to cover the country and everyone over the next few weeks and months. 

“Our suppliers are committed to delivering our orders, shipping companies are committed to vessels travelling to Samoa on schedule and our government is committed to ensuring the ships are able to unload our supplies at the wharf,” the statement says.

“Our company remains committed to operating all our distribution centres (Palisi, Taufusi, Vaitele and Salelologa) and truck deliveries within 6 days a week throughout Samoa…”

The Ah Liki Management added this is as long as the Government permits and the conditions of the State of Emergency allows them to continue their normal operations. 

“We humbly implore the public to shop like you normally would,” the statement says. 

“Buying more than you need means others will go without. Please be considerate and avoid stockpiling as there is enough supply for everyone.”

Members of the public were in a state of panic with people crowding supermarkets, stores and wholesalers to purchase supplies in bulk. 

This follows indication from the Government on Thursday evening of restricted measures that will be enforced to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 disease. 

A father of three from Vaitele who spoke with the Samoa Observer, Tamalii Samasoni had expressed concerns over people buying in quantity causing prices of goods to spike. 

Having earned only $110 tala depending on job availability, Tamalii who works as a lawn mower said the situation is unfortunate for those in low income households. 

However, the Ah Liki Wholesale Management is urging members of the public to remain calm and not panic. 

The company says if there are products that are not available on the shelves it is possible it could be caused by “short delay of delivery from our warehouses to your local store”. 

 “We assure that the products would likely be available on the next day,” says the company. 

“Our staff are working around the clock to ensure uninterrupted service in providing food and drinking water to the people. 

“Let’s work together and be kind to each other to ensure there is enough for everyone.”