Iran Launches Digital Subsidy Scheme to Stabilize Market, Protect Low-Income Households
Tehran – The Iranian government has finalized the launch date for its new digital ration card system, a significant economic measure designed to control inflation and directly support the purchasing power of lower-income families, an economic official announced.
A Targeted Economic Intervention
According to a report by the Young Journalists Club (YJC), the initiative, which revives a form of a commodity coupon system, is a joint effort by the government and the parliament. The primary goals are to provide a strategic buffer against inflation and to offer direct financial support to vulnerable households.
Shielding Essential Goods from Inflation
Elaborating on the mechanism, the official explained that the essential goods covered under the scheme, which include 13 staple items, will be supplied using a preferential foreign exchange rate. Crucially, the government has committed to covering any potential currency differentials to prevent inflation from being directly passed on to the prices of these specific commodities. This measure is intended to ensure the affordability and stability of key goods for the public.
A Streamlined and Direct Support Mechanism
The official emphasized that previous attempts to implement such a program were delayed due to a lack of prepared infrastructure and accurate household data. However, he confirmed that these hurdles have now been overcome, the necessary mechanisms have been finalized, and the system is ready for rollout.
Furthermore, the plan aims to eliminate existing rent-seeking opportunities within the supply chain of essential goods. By delivering the subsidy directly to the people, similar to the mechanism currently used for bread subsidies, the government seeks to enhance efficiency and transparency in its social support programs.
A Flexible and Forward-Looking Plan
The defined list of goods within the digital ration card system is not static. Officials confirmed that the items can be increased or decreased based on the evolving needs of society. The ultimate objective is to achieve a period of relative stability in the market for essential goods through the autumn season.
