Ibrahim Ashmawi, First Assistant Minister of Supply and Head of the Internal Trade Development Authority, said in a television interview with TV anchor Amr Adib that Egypt is on a path to reform its subsidy system, echoing global sentiments to reform social protection systems to provide more targeted protection to those that are most in need. As a result of this reform process, Ashmawi noted that there is now a more advanced database with more information and new criteria that determines which are more deserving of social protection programs, such as consumption and land ownership. For that reason, Ashmawi added that a married couple are considered to be ‘capable’ of being financially independent and are not in need of the state’s support. Nonetheless, the Minister affirmed that there are still no changes or decisions made regarding the subsidy ration cards and that married couples will continue to receive their ration cards until next year. There are further studies being undertaken regarding the issue, Ashmawi noted, and the scenarios will first be presented to the cabinet and the president. “These are ministerial decisions, not a law, and so I assure citizens…
Reforming Egypt’s Subsidy System? Assistant Minister Affirms That No Decision Has Yet Been Taken
December 25, 2021
