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.
Analysts expect no immediate effect on consumer prices: current stock covers market needs at least to the end of next quarter.
What happens next
The Chamber had earlier launched a trader training programme on e-invoicing, taken up by more than 2,100 participants across six governorates.
The small trader is not asking for a subsidy. He is asking for one clear rule that does not change every three months.
The meeting closed by forming a joint Chamber–ministry committee, meeting weekly to follow implementation and reporting monthly to the federation’s board.
What it means for traders
- rising building-material prices 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.
Reem El-Qady
Ahmed El-Shahbandar
