The meeting closed by forming a joint Chamber–ministry committee, meeting weekly to follow implementation and reporting monthly to the federation’s board.
A number of importers argue that the proposed timetable needs a transition period of at least six months, so that small businesses can adapt their accounting systems.
What it means for traders
The division head said the meeting examined the direct effect of the decision on supply inside the local market, and that the Chamber submitted a detailed memorandum carrying traders’ proposals on the timetable.
The small trader is not asking for a subsidy. He is asking for one clear rule that does not change every three months.
Analysts expect no immediate effect on consumer prices: current stock covers market needs at least to the end of next quarter.
How the decision came about
- localising household-goods manufacturing among next quarter’s priorities
- A review of the timetable with the trade divisions
- A monthly report to the federation’s board
He added that stock turnover improved by close to 12% over the last quarter, but that the cost of finance remains the first obstacle to expansion in the governorates.
Mona Abdel-Hakim
Samy Guirguis