Why everyday goods cost more in Dakar than in Paris

In a nation grappling with persistent inflation, the stark price differences between Dakar and Paris have reignited conversations about the high cost of living in Sénégal. A recent video by French content creator Simon Labas, uploaded in December 2025, has resurfaced on social media, showcasing a side-by-side comparison of prices for identical products in both cities.

Key disparities in essential goods

The comparison begins with whole chicken, priced at 2,610 F CFA per kilogram in Dakar—significantly higher than the 2,300 F CFA equivalent in Paris. Butter, another staple, follows a similar trend: Elle & Vire brand costs 2,990 F CFA in Dakar compared to just 1,990 F CFA in the French capital. Even cooking oil, a kitchen essential, sees a steep markup at 6,990 F CFA in Dakar versus 6,000 F CFA in Paris.

Some items reveal even wider gaps. A box of Chocapic cereal retails for 5,250 F CFA in Dakar, more than double the 1,990 F CFA price tag in Paris. Similarly, a bottle of Soupline fabric softener jumps to 9,990 F CFA in Dakar, nearly twice the 5,600 F CFA cost in France.

Logistics squeeze set to worsen inflation

Adding to the strain, global shipping giant Maersk has announced a new surcharge of $250 per container—roughly 151,250 F CFA—starting May 1, 2026. Depending on container type, this fee could climb to as high as 211,750 F CFA, further inflating the cost of imported goods. The ripple effect will likely push retail prices even higher for consumers in Sénégal.

Public reaction and broader concerns

The video’s resurfacing has sparked heated discussions among Sénégalais online, with many expressing shock at the magnitude of the price gaps. Beyond food, housing and fuel have emerged as recurring pain points in the debate, especially after recent fuel price hikes by authorities.

This issue isn’t isolated to Sénégal. The country has long been cited as one of Africa’s most expensive places to live, a distinction underscored in regional rankings. Recent analyses, including those from 2024, place Sénégal second only to Côte d’Ivoire in terms of cost of living on the continent.