Title: Parliament Urges Swift Implementation of Electronic Subsidy Scheme to Stabilize Essential Goods Prices
In a significant political move, the Iranian Parliament has called upon the government to accelerate a major social support program, aligning with the directives of the nation’s leadership to address economic challenges and ensure national cohesion.
Parliamentary Directive for Economic Stability
During an open session of the Islamic Consultative Assembly this Sunday, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf made a formal address, urging the government to expedite the full implementation of the Electronic Goods Coupon (کالابرگ الکترونیک) scheme. He emphasized that this initiative, which has the backing of both the President and the Wise Leader of the Revolution, is crucial for providing immediate relief to citizens.
“The honorable government is once again called upon to swiftly implement the Electronic Goods Coupon scheme,” Ghalibaf stated, “so that the people can always pay a stable price for their essential goods, with the difference being covered by the government.”
Addressing Key Public Concerns
The Speaker’s remarks directly referenced concerns over the cost of living, specifically the prices of essential commodities, housing rents, and utility services. He noted that these issues have been a focal point in recent high-level government meetings, underscoring a unified political will to find solutions.
Beyond the subsidy scheme, Ghalibaf also pressed the government to prioritize the implementation of laws within the country’s Seventh Development Plan. These laws are designed to resolve energy imbalances and tackle the ongoing challenge of housing provision for the people.
A Call for National Unity
Concluding his address, the Parliament Speaker issued a broader call to all officials, elites, and political and social activists. He stressed that preserving national unity is their most critical duty and warned against engaging in divisive tribal or factional disputes. He reminded them that the public closely observes their conduct, and any action that undermines national cohesion only serves to embolden adversaries.
Clarifying the Subsidy Rollout
Amid public speculation, official channels have clarified the status of the Electronic Goods Coupon program. The fourth phase of the scheme is currently active, having been rolled out in two stages in September. Eligible households have until the end of Aban (late November) to utilize their allocated credit for purchasing essential goods.
Reports circulating about a potential fifth phase starting in the current month have been officially dismissed as rumor. Given the extension of the fourth phase, a new phase is not anticipated until Azar (beginning in late November), and even that is contingent upon the necessary budgetary provisions being secured.
How the Electronic Goods Coupon Works
The Electronic Goods Coupon is a modern support mechanism that operates alongside direct cash subsidies. It provides households with dedicated credit to purchase essential items without a direct cash withdrawal from their bank accounts. The program aims to support livelihoods and ensure a more equitable distribution of subsidies.
For the current year, the credit amount has been increased. The first three income deciles receive 500,000 Tomans, while the fourth to seventh deciles receive 350,000 Tomans. This credit is directly allocated to the national ID code of the head of the household, who can then use their bank card at any of the 230,000 participating stores to buy covered items, including rice, oil, meat, poultry, dairy products, pasta, legumes, sugar, and tea. The system allows families the freedom to choose their preferred brands within these categories, making the purchasing process simple and efficient.
