Fuel Price Shock Spreads to Markets, Factories and Households

Over two weeks after the transitional government raised fuel prices, protests have subsided but the impact on streets, markets and factories persists; food and transport costs continue to rise and producers face higher operating costs and weaker demand. The explanations of Energy Minister, Mohammad Al-Bashir, at the People’s Assembly have left unresolved questions, and the government’s plan to provide cheaper gas oil (mazout) for essential uses faces criticism over the lack of implementation mechanisms.