Beirut: The Ministry of Economy and Trade has issued a decision adjusting the price of a medium-sized bundle of Lebanese white bread at bakeries from LBP 75,000 to LBP 80,000, an increase of LBP 5,000.

According to National news agency - Lebanon, the adjustment was made in line with the pricing mechanism that has been in place for years, which periodically calculates the actual cost of the components used in bread production. The ministry highlighted that this increase is necessary to ensure the continuity of bread production and its availability in the market, even though it acknowledges the additional burden on citizens during challenging living conditions.

The statement further explained that the recent price adjustment followed a significant rise in diesel prices since the start of the crisis. Diesel is responsible for around 22% of the costs associated with bread production, and the increase in diesel prices, along with other rising production expenses, has directly impacted bakery operating costs and the cost of producing a bundle of bread. The ministry emphasized that the pricing mechanism is designed to be responsive to changes, pledging to reduce prices as soon as production costs decrease.

Moreover, the Ministry of Economy and Trade assured that the Consumer Protection Directorate continues its monitoring campaigns in markets and bakeries to ensure adherence to the official pricing, addressing any violations to maintain market order and protect consumer rights.