Chamber figures put the number of registered businesses at 41,000, up by 3,400 on last year, most of them in retail and logistics.
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
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.
Transparency in the supply chain is not a burden on the market; it is what protects it from monopoly.
Analysts expect no immediate effect on consumer prices: current stock covers market needs at least to the end of next quarter.
The figures in brief
- easier finance for small enterprises among next quarter’s priorities
- A review of the timetable with the trade divisions
- A monthly report to the federation’s board
The ministry’s representative stressed that the new rules aim at transparency in the supply chain rather than at fixing prices, and that breaches will go to the Consumer Protection Agency.
Mostafa Abdel-Latif
Reem El-Qady