Official denies hike in cigarettes’ price, says ‘greedy merchants’ behind shortage

CAIRO – 8 June 2020: Rumors of expected rise in cigarettes’ prices were denied after many citizens queued outside stores amid fears and appeals to ban gatherings to stop coronavirus spread.

Ibrahim al-Imbabi, the head of the General Department of Smoke and Cigarettes in the Federation of Industries, said there is no shortage in cigarettes, and explained that a number of merchants have caused a shortage in local cigarette due to “their greed.” "The price will not increase... there is no need for storage," he added.

During a phone call to the "El-Hekaya" TV program, hosted by Presenter Amr Adib, Imbabi stated that it is imperative to protect the consumer, pointing out that tax revenues from cigarettes reach LE 65 billion.