Concern at cost of facemasks in French pharmacies

Pharmacies in France can now sell fabric masks that cover the nose and mouth to the general public - but the price has concerned consumer watchdog 60 millions de consommateurs

The most basic, simple, washable fabric masks are being sold for €2-€5 each, the Health Minister has said.

Those of a higher quality, which can withstand washing at 60C up to 50 times or more, will cost around €15-€20 each, said Philippe Besset, president of national pharmaceutical union association, la Fédération des Syndicats Pharmaceutiques de France (FSPF).

"The cost price of a cloth mask is between two and three euros. When you sell them for €15 … you don't need to do a mathematical demonstration," Lionel Maugain, a journalist with 60 millions de consommateurs told Franceinfo

"That is a lot of abuse in perspective because we know very well that with these products that have been made almost compulsory, the salespeople are in a position of strength at the moment."

For single-use masks, the price has been capped at €0.95 each. But Mr Maugain said that price - a maximum - is 10 times higher than the pre-coronavirus cost of a similar mask.

"We very much hope that … from 11 May onwards, consumers will have access to much more moderate prices than that," he said. "Frankly, there are many families who will not be able to keep up.

"If you are a worker, you will have to take at least one mask to go to work, if not two, to come back, since masks are mandatory on public transport. If you go shopping, most stores will probably require consumers to wear masks. Later, in college, masks will also be mandatory.

"If you are a large enough family, it can add up to €100 to €200 for masks per month. This expense was not known before this crisis.

"In a context where family incomes are falling due to short-time working, we will still have to plan for other channels where people can have free access to these protections."