The Tunisian Economy Faces a Persistent Decline in Household Purchasing Power
The Tunisian economy is experiencing a persistent decline in household purchasing power, a complex phenomenon that goes beyond simple inflation. According to an analysis by the Tunisian Organization for Consumer Information (Otic) and its president, Lotfi Riahi, this crisis is exacerbated by shortages and, above all, by "artificial inflation" massively influenced by digital social engineering.
Symptoms of the Crisis
The symptoms of the household budget crisis are palpable. A alarming picture is painted of the daily life of Tunisians, characterized by the high cost of living and a difficult end of the month. Budgetary pressure is omnipresent for households, with exorbitant social costs. Recent statistics (INS) reveal discouraging amounts for key stages of life, such as the cost of educating a child of nearly 150,000 D and marriage of 30,000 D, not to mention the cost of acquiring a vehicle.
Failure of Social Initiatives
The failure of social initiatives exacerbates tensions. Projects aimed at improving well-being, such as interest-free credit for marriage or a car for every family, are "failing" or "falling through".
Underlying Causes: Artificial Inflation and Speculation
Otic clearly identifies the factors that fuel this deterioration. The harmful role of artificial inflation and shortages is undeniable. The observed inflation is qualified as "artificial" or "exorbitant", suggesting that it is largely disconnected from real production costs and is due to price manipulation.
Example of Red Meat
A recent Otic statement gives the example of red meat: although the cost of animal feed has decreased by 50% over the past three years, the price difference between resellers can reach 25 D (40 D versus 65 D), highlighting massive speculation. The interference of speculators aggravates the situation. Actors are taking advantage of the situation, benefiting from cost reductions that are not passed on to the consumer.
Social Engineering: The Weapon of Digital Manipulation
Social engineering, via social networks, is perceived as the main cause of changes in consumption behavior and the normalization of high prices. There is a danger behind the use of social engineering. The consequences for the consumer and the economy are the creation of shortages and false crises, the dissemination of false information (images/videos of empty stores) that encourages rushed purchases and stockpiling, disrupting market equilibrium and driving up prices.
Manipulation of Trust
Added to this is the manipulation of trust. Campaigns denying price reductions (e.g., red meat) are being disseminated to discredit official decisions and hinder reforms.
Disinterest in National Products
The disinterest in national products is encouraged by the incitement to believe that quality is synonymous with foreign products, which reduces the value and demand for the Tunisian industry. The normalization and perversion of values complete the picture. Promotion of series and content that trivialize futilities and deviant behaviors (drugs, violence), devaluing key professions (doctors, engineers) in favor of influencers.
Otic's Proposals to Consolidate Purchasing Power
In the face of this multifaceted crisis, the Tunisian Organization for Consumer Information (Otic) is advancing concrete solutions, mainly focused on price control and the fight against disinformation, taking economic control measures, reducing and capping prices.
Key Idea
The main idea is to set a reasonable price cap for all products and services, not based on profit margin, but imposed on the product itself. Suggested cap: between 20 and 30% of the initial cost. The goal is to force manufacturers to respect this cap, eliminate hidden profit margins (notably from large retailers), and thus avoid uncontrolled price increases.
Management of Olive Oil
Regarding the management of olive oil, Mr. Riahi proposes that the National Olive Oil Office sell at a lower price for the Tunisian consumer, completely separating the national product and setting a fair price (around 10 D for excellent quality). Digital and social protection measures should be considered. Otic calls for national intervention to build digital immunity among consumers.
Recommended National Action
Specific legislation against disinformation and digital social engineering has become necessary to curb the scourge. The role of the consumer is central. They must verify all information before sharing it.
Recommendations
We must work towards creating a National Observatory of Social Engineering, refrain from communicating personal data to unknown third parties, ensure the integration of media and digital education into school programs, prioritize national products by conviction and economic responsibility, and launch a national platform for reporting misleading content and adopt a culture of responsible consumption.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while salary increases can be a temporary solution, Otic insists that the real battle is the one against price increases and collective awareness against the forces of manipulation that exploit the digital environment to impose artificial cost of living.
