Ministry of Economy and Trade has raised concerns over significant increases in the prices of several essential agricultural products in local markets in recent weeks, acknowledging that severe cold weather and unexpected frost have damaged crops, reduced domestic production and caused substantial losses to farmers.
The ministry stressed, however, that declining local production should not be used to justify disproportionate price increases. It also called for better coordination among relevant ministries and public administrations, particularly regarding import permits and decisions to open the market to foreign agricultural products, emphasizing that such measures must be carefully assessed to avoid disrupting local production, supply and demand.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting domestic agricultural production and supporting Lebanese farmers, the ministry said these priorities must go hand in hand with safeguarding consumers’ purchasing power and ensuring the availability of products at fair prices.
It also confirmed that the Consumer Protection Directorate will continue monitoring market prices, investigating the reasons behind increases and intensifying inspections to detect monopolistic practices, stockpiling, price manipulation and excessive profit margins. Legal action will be taken against violators.
The ministry concluded that market stability is a shared responsibility and that disruptions in production, supply or regulatory decisions must not become an additional financial burden on Lebanese consumers.
The ministry stressed, however, that declining local production should not be used to justify disproportionate price increases. It also called for better coordination among relevant ministries and public administrations, particularly regarding import permits and decisions to open the market to foreign agricultural products, emphasizing that such measures must be carefully assessed to avoid disrupting local production, supply and demand.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting domestic agricultural production and supporting Lebanese farmers, the ministry said these priorities must go hand in hand with safeguarding consumers’ purchasing power and ensuring the availability of products at fair prices.
It also confirmed that the Consumer Protection Directorate will continue monitoring market prices, investigating the reasons behind increases and intensifying inspections to detect monopolistic practices, stockpiling, price manipulation and excessive profit margins. Legal action will be taken against violators.
The ministry concluded that market stability is a shared responsibility and that disruptions in production, supply or regulatory decisions must not become an additional financial burden on Lebanese consumers.
