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.
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.
How the decision came about
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.
What happens next
- export facilities into African markets 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.
Ahmed El-Shahbandar
Samy Guirguis