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.
Where the divisions stand
Analysts expect no immediate effect on consumer prices: current stock covers market needs at least to the end of next quarter.
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.
The figures in brief
- an expanded Ahlan Ramadan fair among next quarter’s priorities
- A review of the timetable with the trade divisions
- A monthly report to the federation’s board
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.
Mona Abdel-Hakim
Ahmed El-Shahbandar