The meeting closed by forming a joint Chamber–ministry committee, meeting weekly to follow implementation and reporting monthly to the federation’s board.
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.
How the decision came about
The Chamber had earlier launched a trader training programme on e-invoicing, taken up by more than 2,100 participants across six governorates.
Every day of delay in customs release costs an importer more than any tax cut saves him.
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 it means for traders
- falling global grain prices among next quarter’s priorities
- A review of the timetable with the trade divisions
- A monthly report to the federation’s board
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.
Mostafa Abdel-Latif
Reem El-Qady
Mona Abdel-Hakim