Euro information

Melvyn Mangion, of the National Euro Changeover Committee, answers your questions:

What's new about the new euro.gov.mt?

The NECC has just launched its new version of www.euro.gov.mt. In addition to the euro-related information, already in the previous version, the new site allows the user to chat with the NECC's information officers on any euro-related issue, submit queries or euro-related complaints online, order publications and check out the FAIR status of particular outlets.

E-day is approaching. As a consumer, what I can do from now to prepare for the changeover?

It is essential to start thinking in euro terms from now. All outlets should now be showing prices in Lm and euro, and consequently, you have the possibility to start remembering the euro prices of some basic commodities. Moreover, you can start getting used to the new banknotes and coins. Different colours and sizes represent the different note denominations. Images of these notes and coins are available in various publications published by the NECC and on our Website, www.euro.gov.mt.

What is the difference between FAIR and the price stability agreements?

In joining FAIR, a company undertakes not to increase prices solely due to reasons related to a currency changeover taking place. Companies signing a price stability agreement move a step further, promising not to increase prices irrespective of any price movements that could affect their products.