Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune addressed the nation's pressing issue of rising prices during his regular meeting with national media outlets. He disputed the characterization of price hikes as "unprecedented in 60 years" made by Minister of Interior and Transport Said Chouna. Tebboune described such statements as "incorrect" and "unacceptable," emphasizing the need for a rational, pragmatic, and realistic approach to addressing the issue.
President Tebboune pointed out that Algeria had experienced similar price hikes in the past, citing the "black market era" as an example. He stressed that making sweeping statements about price increases without understanding their underlying causes was not productive. The President's body language and tone suggested he was displeased with Minister Chouna's comments, which he felt did not accurately reflect the complexity of the issue.
The President emphasized that protecting purchasing power and combating speculation were top priorities, as citizens were the foundation of the country's development process. He noted that the government supported 26 essential goods, including five seasonal agricultural products, and that price increases should be limited to reasonable ranges of 15-20%.
Tebboune mentioned that recent fires in several provinces had impacted the availability of certain products, but he did not believe this justified the current price levels. He cited the significant support provided to the agricultural sector, including electricity, water, and fertilizers, and suggested that other factors were driving price hikes.
According to President Tebboune, preliminary investigations revealed that most farmers were not responsible for the current price increases, shifting the focus to other stages of the product distribution chain. He identified the exploitation of opportunities by "parasitic" individuals as a primary driver of price hikes in certain markets.
The President's comments reflect the government's efforts to address the pressing issue of rising prices, which has significant implications for citizens' living standards. By correcting Minister Chouna's remarks and providing a more nuanced understanding of the issue, Tebboune aimed to reassure the public that the government is committed to finding solutions to the country's economic challenges.
The government's measures to address price hikes include restructuring the trade sector, which was recently split into two ministries. This move demonstrates the administration's commitment to tackling the complex issues driving price increases and finding effective solutions to mitigate their impact on citizens.
Key points
- President Tebboune disputes Minister Chouna's comments on price hikes, citing the need for a more nuanced understanding of the issue.
