The Algerian government has launched a vast operation to control the prices of fruits and vegetables, which have seen a significant surge in recent days. The Ministry of Trade, led by Amel Abdelatif, has instructed local trade authorities to intensify inspections and monitoring of wholesale markets and retail businesses. This move aims to stabilize the market, ensure the availability of products, and protect consumers from price hikes. The operation is being carried out in collaboration with the gendarmerie and police.
The price hike of essential commodities, such as tomatoes and potatoes, has raised concerns among households and prompted the government to take action. President Tebboune has attributed the price increase to spéculation, emphasizing that most farmers are not responsible for the surge. The government's efforts focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of the price hikes, rather than solely targeting farmers. By monitoring wholesale markets and retail businesses, authorities aim to prevent unjustified price increases and ensure a stable supply of essential products.
Inspectors have been deployed to major wholesale markets across the country, including the Chaâbane market in Tizi Ouzou and the Felliache market in Biskra. These inspections, conducted in the early hours of the morning, aim to verify the supply chain, pricing, and storage conditions of fruits and vegetables. The authorities are also monitoring the arrival of goods and their distribution to prevent any potential shortages or price manipulation. This proactive approach is expected to help stabilize the market and prevent further price hikes.
The potato has been a particular focus of the government's efforts, with several trade authorities targeting this staple product. Inspectors have visited retailers and wholesalers, verifying that prices are in line with government-set rates. In Batna, authorities have worked with police and gendarmerie to inspect retailers and ensure compliance with regulations. Similarly, in Khenchela, a joint team of inspectors has monitored the Ensigha wholesale market, informing traders of new measures to regulate potato prices and verifying that the supply is stable and abundant.
In addition to monitoring prices and supply chains, inspectors are also checking for compliance with commercial practices and hygiene standards. In Jijel, authorities have inspected markets and retailers, verifying that prices are displayed and that products meet hygiene standards. Similarly, in Oran, inspectors have visited markets and retailers, checking for compliance with pricing regulations and hygiene standards. Any businesses found to be non-compliant are facing penalties and fines.
The government's operation is nationwide, with trade authorities and inspectors deployed across the country to monitor markets and retailers. In Tizi Ouzou, authorities have established a permanent presence in Draâ El Mizan, monitoring compliance with commercial regulations and ensuring the availability of essential products. The operation is expected to continue in the coming days, with the government committed to stabilizing the market and protecting consumers from price hikes.
The Algerian government's efforts to control fruit and vegetable prices are ongoing, with authorities working to address the root causes of the surge. By monitoring markets, inspecting retailers, and enforcing regulations, the government aims to stabilize the market and ensure that essential products are available to consumers at fair prices. The operation is a key priority for the government, which is committed to protecting consumers and promoting economic stability.
Key points
- The Algerian government has launched a nationwide operation to control fruit and vegetable prices.
- The operation aims to stabilize the market, ensure the availability of products, and protect consumers from price hikes.
- Inspectors are monitoring wholesale markets and retail businesses, verifying supply chains, pricing, and hygiene standards.
