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.
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.
Where the divisions stand
The meeting closed by forming a joint Chamber–ministry committee, meeting weekly to follow implementation and reporting monthly to the federation’s board.
The small trader is not asking for a subsidy. He is asking for one clear rule that does not change every three months.
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 Chamber’s view
- lower customs release costs 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.
Ahmed El-Shahbandar
Karim Fouad