Title: Parliament and Government Unite on Subsidy Card Reforms, Pledge Price Stability for Essential Goods
In a significant move to bolster public welfare, the Iranian Parliament has announced promising developments regarding the implementation of the electronic subsidy card system. Emphasizing the need for meticulous execution, parliamentary sessions have focused on refining the program to overcome potential obstacles and enhance its effectiveness.
A Vital Support Mechanism
MP Ali Haddadi, representing Saweh and Taleqan, underscored the critical role of the electronic subsidy card as one of the government’s primary tools for supporting low-income families. He stressed that the program directly impacts the livelihood of Iranian households, making its careful implementation a top priority. Haddadi called for the government to ensure the stable and fixed pricing of essential goods for the lower-income deciles of society.
A Shield Against Price Hikes
“The burden of any price increase for essential commodities should not fall on the people,” Haddadi stated. “The government must cover the difference. Inflationary pressures must not be transferred to the subsidy card program, which necessitates serious and precise monitoring.” He emphasized that the full and proper execution of the plan is vital to shield vulnerable segments of the population from inflationary pressures.
Parliamentary Priorities and Governmental Coordination
Parliament Speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, highlighted the necessity of fundamental measures to address the nation’s livelihood and broader economic challenges. He identified three key priorities for the Parliament: the effective implementation of the new subsidy card model, alleviating the housing problem, and developing a comprehensive plan for the healthcare sector. Ghalibaf urged the government to adopt a more holistic view of these issues and implement appropriate solutions.
A Unified Front for Stable Pricing
MP Shahbaz Hassanpour, referencing meetings between the Parliament and the government, announced a crucial agreement. The essential goods included in the subsidy card program will be supplied at stable and predictable prices. “These goods will be priced based on the 28,500 Tomans exchange rate,” Hassanpour clarified, “and it is not planned for their prices to fluctuate according to the free market exchange rate.”
He expressed optimism that, through mutual cooperation, the program would finally achieve the price stability that has been a goal since the previous year. The Parliament, he affirmed, welcomes all proposals that contribute to calming price volatilities and stabilizing the market.
A Call for Enhanced Management
Lawmakers expect the government to execute the subsidy card plan with improved management and greater coordination. Key measures called for include creating transparency in the pricing mechanism of goods, continuous monitoring of distribution, and preventing unauthorized price increases. These steps are seen as instrumental in strengthening the living conditions of the people, particularly the lower-income deciles.
Key Focus Areas of the Reform Plan:
- Effective implementation of the electronic subsidy card.
- Price stabilization for essential goods with government covering differentials.
- Developing comprehensive and transparent plans to address housing challenges.
- Improving healthcare services with a focus on vulnerable groups.