Egypt's Minister of Supply and Internal Trade Sherif Farouk met with representatives of the Food suppliers and distributors in Giza governorate, the Ration Grocers' Syndicate, and Gamaeiti project to discuss proposed reforms to the country's ration distribution network. Key demands raised during the meeting included abolishing custodial penalties for violations by ration grocers and replacing them with appropriate financial fines, under a clear and equitable legal framework aimed at ensuring discipline and regulatory compliance. Discussions also touched on the potential provision of social services—such as health insurance—for workers at ration outlets to support their social and economic stability. Carry On The meeting also explored cooperation to implement a unified model for ration grocers and Gamaeiti outlets under the brand Carry On, in alignment with broader development and modernisation goals. With more than 40,000 ration outlets operating across Egypt, officials underscored their central role in supporting food security and ensuring the availability of essential goods. Participants also called for expanding the sale of free-market goods through ration outlets alongside subsidised commodities, a step seen as critical to sustaining outlet operations and offering consumers a broader product mix. The attendees agreed on the need for regular coordination meetings between ration outlet representatives, the Ministry, and directorates of supply across the country to facilitate timely communication and resolve operational challenges. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
