Title: Iran Launches Fifth Phase of Electronic Voucher Scheme to Boost Essential Goods Access
Introduction
The Iranian government has initiated a significant new phase of its nationwide social support program, marking a key development in its economic stabilization policies. The fifth phase of the Electronic Voucher (KalaBarg) scheme, which began in the second week of the Iranian month of Azar (late November), represents a strategic effort to directly support household purchasing power and ensure access to essential goods. This hybrid model, combining non-cash vouchers with direct cash subsidies, underscores a continued commitment to structured economic support for citizens.
A Targeted and Phased Support Mechanism
The rollout of the fifth phase is being executed in a carefully planned, staggered approach to prioritize lower-income families. This method ensures that the most vulnerable segments of the population receive support first, allowing them earlier access to vital supplies.
According to the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labour, and Social Welfare, households in the first to third income deciles are receiving a 500,000 Toman voucher credit. Two weeks after the initial launch, households in the fourth to seventh deciles will become eligible for a 350,000 Toman credit. The value of these vouchers has seen an increase compared to previous months, reflecting the program’s expanded scope.
Streamlined Access and Designated Use
A key feature of this phase is its user-friendly design. Beneficiaries do not need to register or collect a separate card. The head of the household can simply use their regular bank card at any affiliated retail store. The system automatically identifies eligible purchases and deducts the amount from the voucher credit.
The voucher credit is exclusively for the purchase of a defined basket of essential goods, including items such as rice, cooking oil, chicken, pasta, eggs, and dairy products. This non-cash mechanism is a deliberate policy tool to ensure the support is channeled directly towards meeting fundamental household needs and stabilizing the market for essential commodities.
Synchronized Cash Subsidy Payments
Running concurrently with the voucher scheme, the direct cash subsidy payment for Azar will also be distributed in two tranches. To provide comprehensive support, households in the first to third deciles will receive a 400,000 Toman cash payment on the 25th of Azar. Households in the fourth to ninth deciles will receive a 300,000 Toman payment on the 30th of Azar. This cash component provides families with flexibility for other expenses.
Policy Objectives and Broader Impact
The simultaneous implementation of the enhanced Electronic Voucher program and the cash subsidy payments signifies a multi-faceted approach to social welfare. This combined support package is designed to effectively mitigate the impact of economic pressures on citizens’ livelihoods.
Furthermore, the program continues to advance the nation’s digital payment infrastructure, making the process of receiving and utilizing state support more efficient, transparent, and accessible for all eligible families across the country. The government’s expansion of this program follows its positive reception in previous months, reinforcing its role as a central pillar of Iran’s social safety net.