Algeria’s Inflation Crisis: Ramadan Prices Soar, Citizens Struggle to Afford Basics

Algeria’s inflation has reached 9.53%, making products unaffordable for most citizens, particularly during the month of Ramadan.

Despite economic recovery in the past three years due to rising oil prices, the effects of years of austerity still haunt Algerian citizens.

Tomatoes and meat prices are particularly high during Ramadan, with prices reaching up to 2600 dinars per kg. Meat vendor Ahmed Laaloufi has been forced to import all his produce, despite the availability of sufficient quantities.

The Algerian government has subsidized a market in Algiers to provide affordable and accessible products. The solidarity market initiative is seen as a positive move, as it helps reduce prices.

Analyst Nabil Djemaa explains that inflation is affecting all raw materials and manufactured goods, particularly agricultural products like semolina (wheat). He also notes that when there is inflation, there is an automatic increase in prices.