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Dieese Study Points to Increase in the Cost of the Basic Basket and Indicates Insufficiency of the Minimum Wage to Support Families
The price of the basic food basket increased in February in 14 of the 17 capitals analyzed by the Inter-Union Department of Statistics and Socioeconomic Studies (Dieese). The highest increase was recorded in Recife, with an increase of 4.44%. João Pessoa (2.55%), Natal (2.28%), and Brasília (2.15%) followed.
On the other hand, there was a decrease in basket values in Goiânia (-2.32%), Florianópolis (-0.13%), and Porto Alegre (-0.12%). Despite the reduction, Florianópolis remains among the capitals with the highest costs, occupying the third position, behind São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
São Paulo Has the Most Expensive Basket
The capital of São Paulo registered the highest cost of basic food in February, reaching R$ 860.53. Rio de Janeiro came in right behind, at R$ 814.90. Florianópolis, even with a slight decrease this month, had the third highest value: R$ 807.71. Campo Grande completes the group of the most expensive cities, at R$ 773.95.
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In contrast, the cities with the lowest values were Aracaju (R$ 580.45), Recife (R$ 625.33), and Salvador (R$ 628.80). The study highlighted that in cities in the North and Northeast regions, the basic basket has a different composition, which directly influences the final prices.
Annual Variation
Compared to February of last year, the basic basket became more expensive in 14 capitals surveyed by Dieese. The largest annual increase was recorded in Fortaleza, with a rise of 13.22%. Vitória had the smallest positive variation, at only 1.87%.
On the other hand, Porto Alegre (-3.40%), Rio de Janeiro (-2.15%), and Belo Horizonte (-0.20%) showed a decrease in food prices, indicating some temporary relief for consumers in these cities.
Minimum Wage Far From Ideal
Dieese’s survey also pointed out that the current minimum wage of R$ 1,518 is insufficient to meet the basic needs of a family of four, as stipulated by the Federal Constitution.
For the month of February, a minimum wage of R$ 7,229.32 would be necessary, almost five times the current amount, considering the prices practiced in the capital of São Paulo.
Furthermore, a worker earning the minimum wage spent, on average, 51.46% of their net salary (after social security deductions) on purchasing the basic basket.
In terms of hours worked, 104 hours and 43 minutes were needed to acquire the essential products in February, an increase compared to January, when 103 hours and 34 minutes were necessary.
In February 2024, however, the required time was even greater: 107 hours and 38 minutes.
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