Why staples cost more in Dakar than in Paris

Inflation bites hard: Dakar shoppers pay more for everyday staples

Senegal’s rising inflation has pushed household budgets to the brink, with recent price comparisons between Dakar and Paris drawing sharp attention online. A viral video by French content creator Simon Labas, released in December 2025, highlights the stark differences in retail prices for common grocery items, sparking renewed debate about the cost of living in the country.

Essentials that cost significantly more in Dakar

The price gap is most evident in basic food products. A whole chicken in Dakar sells for 2,610 F CFA per kilogram, compared to 2,300 F CFA in Paris. Butter from the Elle & Vire brand is 2,990 F CFA in Senegal’s capital versus 1,990 F CFA in France. Cooking oil, a staple in most kitchens, costs 6,990 F CFA in Dakar compared to 6,000 F CFA in Paris.

Other everyday items follow the same trend. A box of Chocapic cereal in Dakar is priced at 5,250 F CFA—more than double the 1,990 F CFA tag in Paris. Even household products like the Soupline fabric softener are nearly twice as expensive in Dakar, selling for 9,990 F CFA compared to 5,600 F CFA in France.

Logistics surcharges to further inflate prices

The disparity is set to worsen with new shipping costs. Starting May 1, 2026, the maritime transporter Maersk will impose a handling surcharge of 250 USD per container—approximately 151,250 F CFA—on imports bound for West Africa. In some cases, the additional fee could reach 211,750 F CFA, directly increasing the cost of goods and ultimately driving up consumer prices in Senegal.

Senegalese consumers feel the pinch across the board

The online uproar over these comparisons reflects deep frustration among Senegalese shoppers. Beyond food, housing and fuel are frequently cited as major financial burdens, especially after recent fuel price hikes by authorities. Many point to the country’s broader economic challenges, where the cost of living remains one of the highest in Africa. Recent rankings place Senegal second only to Côte d’Ivoire in terms of living expenses on the continent.

By Claire Mvondo — Security and State Policy Expert