Source: Kataeb.org
Monday 13 November 2023 12:38:47
The bread crisis in Lebanon has worsened in the recent period, reaching an unprecedented stage, especially with the soaring prices in the black market.
This situation did not go unnoticed, as the Lebanese people suffered greatly, facing long queues, strikes, and protests.
Obtaining a single loaf of bread became a challenging task. Amid the war in Gaza and the south, Lebanese people fear a recurrence of the scene.
However, Head of the Bakeries Syndicate Antoine Seif reassured, "Bread is currently secured," warning of the consequences of the situation on the southern border and its impact on the officials' ability to secure wheat if the country is besieged.
In an interview with Ad-Diyar Newspaper, Seif stated, "There is no fear of a bread or flour shortage because they are both available, at least for the time being."
He pointed out that mills have enough quantity to last about two months.
"Ships arrive as usual unless there is any problem domestically or involvement in any security events, especially in areas experiencing some security incidents," he explained.
"In this case, other regions will work to cover the entire market. This is what we are trying to do currently by working with the Minister of Economy Amin Salam, and the Bakeries Syndicate," he noted.
Regarding the recent increase in the price of a bread loaf, Seif pointed out: "The bread price increased because the mills are now paying 15% of the wheat price at the exchange rate of LBP 30,000, compared to a previous rate of LBP 15,000. Therefore, the price increased by LBP 4,000.”
He expressed concern over "the situation on the southern border and the possibility of wheat not entering the region if the country is besieged," hoping not to enter this difficult stage and confirming that wheat is still secured so far.
"The Minister of Economy is working with the United Nations, in case of any maritime blockade, to bring essential foodstuffs into the country, including wheat and flour," he stated.
"The rise in fuel prices and workforce cost have had a significant impact on the fate of the bread loaf and bakeries," Seif concluded.