Tunisian Consumer Association Warns of Deliberate Reduction in Subsidized Bread Production During Ramadan
Lotfi Riahi, president of the Tunisian Consumer Orientation Organization (ODC), has raised an alarm over the intentional cut‑back in the production of subsidized bread by certain bakeries since the start of Ramadan. According to Riahi, these establishments are steering customers toward non‑subsidized, higher‑priced bread, thereby diverting public funds and hurting purchasing power.
Key Concerns Highlighted by the ODC
- Abuse of the subsidy system – Riahi describes the practice as a serious violation of the state‑backed bread subsidy scheme.
- State‑supported flour – Subsidized flour receives financial backing from the General Compensation Fund, under the supervision of the Ministry of Trade and the Office of Cereals.
- Supply denial to local shops – Some bakeries are refusing to deliver bread to neighborhood grocery stores, causing systematic stock‑outs of baguettes.
Calls to Action
- Immediate inspections of bakeries to verify the quantities of subsidized flour used.
- Publication of transparent data on flour consumption and bread output.
- Sanctions for violators who breach the subsidy regulations.
Proposed Solution
The ODC recommends the exclusive use of fiber‑enriched flour for all subsidized bread. This measure would:
- Prevent diversion of subsidized flour to the private market.
- Enhance the nutritional value of the bread.
- Simplify monitoring and enforcement by authorities.
Commitment from the ODC
Lotfi Riahi assures that the organization will continue to monitor the situation closely to guarantee that citizens retain access to subsidized bread at the official price throughout Ramadan and beyond.
Keywords: Tunisia, subsidized bread, consumer protection, Ramadan, Lotfi Riahi, ODC, flour subsidy, market abuse, food security.
