SANTO DOMINGO.- The Government subsidy on staple foods could surpass RD$6 billion, said yesterday Economy minister Juan Temístocles Montás, who clarified however, that "it doesn’t represent a danger for State finances.”

"With the topic of the subsidies I believe there’s been much racket. In the case of foods, I believe that we’re speaking of numbers that can reach RD$6 billion per year. That doesn’t represent a danger for the public finances." He said.

The official said the subsidy which needs due attention is the one for the electrical sector, because it’s associated to the rise in oil prices. He said for this year US$650 million was budgeted for the electricity subsidy, though US$1 billion would be needed at the end of the year.

The Government had a RD$4 billion windfall this year from the sale of shares of the Brugal rum company.

Montás spoke prior to the inaugural of the National Statistics Office’s Information and Documentation Center, where online services and a digital catalogue will be provided.