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.
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.
The figures in brief
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.
Transparency in the supply chain is not a burden on the market; it is what protects it from monopoly.
The Chamber had earlier launched a trader training programme on e-invoicing, taken up by more than 2,100 participants across six governorates.
The Chamber’s view
- fully digital shop licensing among next quarter’s priorities
- A review of the timetable with the trade divisions
- A monthly report to the federation’s board
Analysts expect no immediate effect on consumer prices: current stock covers market needs at least to the end of next quarter.
Mostafa Abdel-Latif
Reem El-Qady
Mona Abdel-Hakim