Tebboune Orders Urgent Action to Stabilize Prices, Protect Purchasing Power

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune issued a strong warning, declaring that any harm inflicted upon the Algerian people would be considered a personal attack. This statement was part of a firm address against those attempting to manipulate prices, whom he referred to as "apprentice sorcerers," "mafia," "vampires," and "parasites." The President reiterated the state's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the purchasing power of citizens and protecting households from speculative abuses, underscoring the citizen as the utmost priority.

In his periodic interview, President Tebboune displayed a strong resolve to counter price speculation, an act that has been criminalized and carries penalties of up to ten years in prison. He noted that while recent fires in central and eastern wilayas impacted product availability, this situation did not justify the observed price increases. Investigations, he stated, indicated that the majority of farmers were not responsible for the price hikes. The President characterized speculative practices as a "crime against the people" and emphasized the government's readiness to confront them.

To address the issue, President Tebboune confirmed that he had instructed the government to implement urgent measures aimed at stabilizing prices. He assured the public that a reduction in prices would be observable in the coming days. Furthermore, the President reaffirmed the government's commitment to revaluing salaries, with planned increases to be included in the upcoming year's budget and implemented starting in 2027. He reiterated his pledge to realize the remaining 53% of salary increases, which could be applied in one or two tranches depending on prevailing conditions.