Algerian Citizens Struggle with Soaring Prices on First Day of Ramadan

Algerian citizens, particularly those with medium or low incomes, are finding it challenging to cope with the rising costs of living. On the first day of Ramadan, many expressed their frustration with the high prices of essential goods. They claim that it is practically impossible to meet their family's needs with the current prices. Many citizens have voiced their concerns, stating that the budget for the month can no longer cover their expenses.

The prices of fruits and vegetables have skyrocketed in recent days, leaving citizens struggling to make ends meet. At the Edimco weekly market in Bejaia, prices are displaying a significant increase. For example, potatoes are selling between 55 and 70 Algerian dinars (Da), while courgettes cost 150 Da, carrots between 70 and 100 Da, and lettuce 100 Da. The prices of fruits are even more exorbitant, with watermelon selling between 100 and 120 Da per kilogram and apples at 300 Da.

The prices of fruits and vegetables have doubled in just one day, according to citizens. They claim that the prices displayed at the Edimco market on the first day of Ramadan are not the same as those displayed at the same market on Thursday last week. One citizen expressed his indignation, stating that he had done his weekly shopping on Thursday and was shocked to see the price increase.

The price of meat is also a concern for Algerian citizens. The price of beef is 1300 Da per kilogram, while lamb is selling at 1500 Da. Although the price of chicken has decreased, it remains unaffordable for many. At the El-Khemis market, the price of chicken was 350 Da per kilogram on the first day of Ramadan. Many citizens believe that the price hikes are unreasonable and are affecting their daily lives.

Algerian citizens are not the only ones affected by the price hikes; the issue is a recurring problem during Ramadan. Many believe that the price increases are not justified and are the result of speculation by wholesalers. However, the citizens are the ones who are ultimately affected by the price hikes.

The Algerian authorities have taken steps to address the issue, with the services of the Directorate of Consumer Protection (DCP) on the ground to ensure that the laws in place are respected. The DCP is particularly focused on the application of reference prices for certain products. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.

The situation has sparked frustration among citizens, with many calling for action to address the issue. Karim, a high school teacher, expressed his frustration, stating that the same scenario repeats itself every Ramadan, with prices increasing without any apparent reason. The citizens are hoping that the authorities will take concrete steps to address the issue and make essential goods more affordable.

Key points

• Algerian citizens face significant price hikes on essential goods, making it difficult to afford basic necessities on the first day of Ramadan.
• The prices of fruits and vegetables have doubled in just one day, according to citizens.
• The Algerian authorities have taken steps to address the issue, with the services of the Directorate of Consumer Protection (DCP) on the ground to ensure that the laws in place are respected.