The Spokesperson for the Bakeries Division of the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce Khaled Sabry announced that the prices of non-subsidized bread are now subject to a slight increase after rising flour prices.
During a phone interview with Azhari Channel on Monday, Sabry added that the increase in flour prices is the result of several factors, including the competitive situation in the market and the increase in production costs.
Sabry explained that the cost of a ton of popular flour has increased by about LE400, with an increase rate estimated at about 10 percent.
He reassured citizens that the increase in bread prices will not be noticeable, as bakery owners can follow certain strategies, such as maintaining the weight of the loaf or increasing the price by only a quarter of a pound.
Sabry noted that the impact of rising rent in some areas may increase financial pressures on bakery owners, adding that with the approach of the Ramadan and Shaaban Hijri months, there is an increasing demand for bread, but the market is able to absorb these increases without a major impact on consumers.
The coming of these religious months creates good seasons for bread, he added, and there may be an increase in bread purchases – however prices will remain within control due to the quality and competitiveness of the market.
It is critical to ensure that citizens maintain their purchasing power, he said, alongside monitoring the market to ensure that prices are not manipulated.
Transparency in commercial transactions and the hard work of bakery owners are the essential elements to maintain price stability and meet the needs of consumers in various categories, he added.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
