Egypt to increase sugar on ration cards by up to 2 KGs in January 2024

In an effort to alleviate the burden of soaring local sugar prices, the Egyptian Ministry of Supply and Internal Trade announced yesterday that Egypt will be implementing an increase of sugar on ration cards starting in January 2024. The decision aims to provide relief to Egyptian citizens grappling with the surge in sugar prices, which have risen by over 50 percent in recent weeks.

Under the new measures, individuals holding ration cards will be entitled to an additional kilogram of sugar, extending the allowance for up to three people. Moreover, households with four or more individuals will receive an extra two kilograms of sugar on their ration cards.

The decision comes as the General Authority for Supply Commodities (GASC) has taken steps to address the sugar shortage by securing the import of 50,000 tons of raw sugar, scheduled for delivery in February 2024, according to earlier media statements.

The Egyptian government has also highlighted its commitment to increasing domestic sugar production. Local sugar production from sugar cane is set to commence in January, while production from sugar beets is scheduled to start in March. These efforts are aimed at reducing reliance on imports and ensuring a stable supply of sugar within the country.

To further address the issue, the Ministry of Supply and Internal Trade has injected 245,000 tons of sugar into the markets, according to a recent Facebook post by Minister Ali Al-Moselhi. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has also instructed periodic reports on sugar prices to be submitted until the market stabilizes.