SARS threat on Brunei's businesses…

The spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) bug has meant business in Asia has suffered. The virus - which originated in Asia - has so far infected at least 7000 people across 30 countries, and nearly 500 people have died. The rapid spread of the SARS epidemic is a threat to the business community in Asia at a time when consolidated efforts are being made to address the region's economic growth.

In Brunei, the sense of caution among the public continues to grow. The Ministry of Health has recommended all non-essential travel to affected areas be deferred.

What was once a simple business trip or holiday to those infected countries could now claim your life and the surgical mask has gradually become part of Asia's corporate attire.

In Brunei, which has had no cases of SARS reported, the government is aware the disease is a national threat.

Evidence of the SARS' crippling effect on the services industry in Brunei, such as restaurants, retail and leisure, has yet to be seen.

But according to RTB Consumer Unit, the economic impact of the SARS virus is beginning to reach the household goods aisles.

A wide-range of merchandise sold in Brunei comes from China and Singapore. And now there are new concerns about the supply and demand, and the trickle-down effect, to consumer's wallets.

The phrase "made in China" is as household as the products that carry the seal. Consumers have benefited from the imports - such as toys, shoes and clothing - in the form of cheaper prices at the store.

Now, consumers are becoming more aware of where their goods are made or came from and are bracing for increasing prices as a result of the virus that originated in China and has killed at least 220 people to date.

RTB Consumer Unit has received several calls and e-mail from consumers saying some stores are taking the SARS epidemic as an excuse to increase several household products.

So, is it true? RTB consumer research team visited several local stores that sell products imported from Singapore and China and found out that not all stores increased their prices.

One local fruit owner said, "The price of imported fruits especially those coming from China and Singapore has increased because freight charges has risen due to SARS."

While some stores owner told RTB Consumer researcher that they are reluctant to increase their prices because they are afraid that they might lost their loyal customers especially during the current economic situation.

The long-term economic impact of SARS depends on whether the virus can be brought under control soon but with new cases still being reported every day in some countries, it is likely that Asia's economic growth will further be dampened. Travel is no longer a happy and enjoyable occasion.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin