Ahead of Ramadan, which will starts in late March this year, scores of Egyptians are flooding the “Ahlan (Welcome) Ramadan” markets that opened nearly three months ahead of the Muslim holy month as the government tries to alleviate pressures stemming from high food prices.
The scheme which offers basic commodities at discounted rates than in the shops, is expected to last from January until the end of April, Egypt’s supply ministry confirms.
It usually runs for about three weeks ahead of Ramadan as families stock up on food items for meals between fasting.
At the Ramadan markets common staples including meat, pasta and flour are offered at discounts of 25-30% through several vendors across the country.
The rising inflation resulting from currency devaluation and a severe Dollar shortage has weakened the buying power of Egyptians previously impacted by multiple economic crises and years of cost-cutting measures.