The new policy on subsidized bread will allow citizens to receive a monthly payment of LE13.5 in cash, buy subsidized flour or buy subsidized bread directly. This policy will provide citizens with the opportunity to choose the most suitable way to receive their subsidy, affirmed Ali el-Moselhi, minister of social solidarity.
The monthly payment of LE13.5 for subsidized bread is the result of a careful study examining consumption and cost patterns, said el-Moselhi during the inauguration of an annual charity event for the visually-challenged held by the Nour wel Amal Association. Bread costs 20 piastres to produce and is sold at a subsidized price of 15 piastres, he said, adding that on average, individuals consume three loaves daily, which means that the average individual needs 45 piastres daily to afford his daily bread needs, totaling LE13.5 a month.
By leaving the subsidy untouched, individuals incapable of benefiting from the new structure will continue to receive their benefits, explained an official at the ministry.
Unfortunately, in some families, the breadwinner spends the bread subsidy on his own personal needs, often disregarding his wife and children, therefore these instances were considered in formulating the new policy said the same official. Some rural areas also prefer to receive their subsidies in the form of subsidized flour, he added.
There are mechanisms in place to ensure everyone receives only their fair share of bread subsidies, said the official, adding that those who receive the cash subsidy will not receive the monthly payment.
Translated from the Arabic Edition.
