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.
The Chamber had earlier launched a trader training programme on e-invoicing, taken up by more than 2,100 participants across six governorates.
Where the divisions stand
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.
| Commodity | Last week | This week |
|---|---|---|
| Steel | 41,200 | 42,000 |
| Cement | 3,850 | 3,900 |
The small trader is not asking for a subsidy. He is asking for one clear rule that does not change every three months.
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.
What happens next
- new pricing rules for staple goods 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
Mona Abdel-Hakim