Prime Minister warned against increasing prices

Prime Minister Ibrahim Mehleb received a report from "sovereign bodies" warning him not to increase the prices of certain commodities.

As part of an economic development plan, the government was expected to increase the taxation on certain commodities such as fuel and imported cigarettes, as well as increase the price of water and electricity, reported the privately owned Al-Masry Al-Youm.

Sources told the privately owned newspaper that the prime minister was warned against price increases, especially on fuel, as it may have negative implications. The report sent to the prime minister had noted a state of discontent with the current economic conditions among citizens.

The price increase was expected to save LE25 million from the government budget. However, the report stated that the decision may cause "a wave of public anger," and that the money can be raised through sectors other than fuel.

According to sources, the prime minister held a Cabinet meeting to discuss and implement other economic decisions before the government submits its resignation to the new president.

In April, the government decided to raise the prices of natural gas used in households and commercial activities. Subsidized bread bakeries already functioning before the decree were exempted from the price increase.