Egypt further reduces access to subsidies

Egypt has imposed restrictions aimed at reducing the number of beneficiaries of food subsidies in the future, most notably imposing a limit of supplies for up to four family members per household when a new card is issued.

According to the Ministry of Supply’s decision which was reported today, pensioners will only be eligible for a subsidy card if their income is less than 1,200 Egyptian pounds ($67.5) and employees must earn less than 1,500 pounds ($84.4).

The regulations also stipulate that the maximum monthly income should not exceed 800 pounds ($45) for temporary workers, professionals, craftsmen, drivers and the unemployed.

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Egypt supports about 68.8 million citizens through about 20.8 million ration cards.

The country pays 50 pounds per month for each individual beneficiary to buy basic food commodities.

The decision of the Minister of Supply Ali Al-Meselhi, which is dated 24 June, stipulated that no income restrictions have been placed on those who suffer from chronic diseases or who have special needs.

Egypt has a population of more than 93.5 million.