Abu Aqola: The stockpile of essential goods is sufficient for months.. and the increase in shipping costs is limited and temporary
Amman2 min read
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The representative of the owners of clearing and cargo transportation companies, Dr. Dhi Al-Allah Abu Aqola, confirmed that there is no expected immediate increase in the prices of goods in the local market in the event of disruptions in navigation through the Bab al-Mandab Strait, indicating that any possible disruptions will be handled through ready alternative routes.
Abu Aqola told Al-Rai that the commercial sector, in coordination with the government, is working to absorb any possible increase in shipping costs and meet the needs of the private sector, ensuring that this increase does not affect the consumer as much as possible.
He explained that the alternative routes through the port of Aqaba and the Arab land crossings have proven their efficiency during previous crises, indicating that any increase in import and transportation costs will be limited and temporary if these routes are resorted to.
He pointed out that there are ongoing demands from the sector to the government to reduce fees, compensate traders, and maintain price stability, noting that there is government responsiveness in this regard.
Regarding the stock of essential goods, Abu Aqola confirmed that the situation is generally reassuring, explaining that the strategic stockpile of wheat, barley, and other food and essential items is sufficient for many months, in addition to the merchants possessing a good stock of most essential goods.
He added that the Jordanian market will not be significantly affected in the event of a short or medium delay in shipping traffic, explaining that the potential impact may affect some imported goods from East Asia, most notably electrical appliances and spare parts.
Abu Aqola emphasized that essential, food, and pharmaceutical goods are available in sufficient quantities, and there is no reason for concern about them.
He stressed the importance of continued coordination between the commercial sector and the government, intensifying work at the port of Aqaba and customs centers around the clock, along with monitoring the markets to prevent any price gouging, ensuring the continued flow of goods and maintaining the stability of the local market.
