The Department of Internal Trade is raising safety stock for domestically produced goods because of weather risk and global hoarding. It says soap, toothpaste and shampoo makers have no price-increase plans. Egg prices are expected to fall from mid-to-late October as new-generation hens come into production. Palm oil supply is confirmed sufficient, and domestic prices are not expected to rise much if world prices hold. Cooking oil promotions will rotate among retailers. Price increases are granted only case by case and must stay below competitors' prices. For a small business, plan input purchases with buffer stock in mind, and expect lower egg costs from October.