Covid-19: Baby clothes, towels and other essentials can be sold during lockdown, maybe even cheaper
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition says there is provision for the sell of baby products to a certain age during the lockdown.
There has been some confusion as to whether or not baby clothes are an essential item and if parents can buy baby products during the 21-day lockdown.
Regarding regulations published in the Government Notice R398 of 25 March 2020, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition said in a statement, “Regulations published on 25 March included, under paragraph 6(a), the following inclusion as an essential good: (iv) Products for the care of babies and toddlers.”
It said the provision includes baby clothes, blankets, towels and other essential accessories for newborns, infants and toddlers up to 36 months old.
All stores that are currently permitted to remain open during the lockdown, including supermarkets, can sell the mention above products. The department added, “We have been in contact with the CEOs of the large retailers, who have undertaken to sell these products at prices which simply cover their basic costs of production and distribution for the period of the lockdown.”
Hospitals and clinics can also procure these products as necessary to provide for the infants in their care, the department concluded.
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