Ramzi Trabelsi, director of the National Observatory of Supply and Prices at the Ministry of Trade, has stated that the potato crisis in Tunisia is anticipated to be resolved in December, aligning with the autumn season. Trabelsi highlighted ongoing efforts to combat speculators, which are part of the department's strategy. He noted a current decrease in the production and prices of various agricultural commodities, attributing the potato shortage to the structural autumn deficit beginning in November and lasting until December. Trabelsi explained the deficit is typically managed by releasing buffer stocks into the market, but recent reductions in potato cultivation areas due to drought have decreased production and buffer stock levels, impacting the supply in various governorates.
Trabelsi expressed optimism that the crisis would be mitigated by mid-December, with seasonal potato production starting in November and markets already receiving necessary supplies. He disclosed that control services of the Ministry of Trade seized 234 tons of potatoes in November due to monopolies and price manipulation, with the ministry adjusting retail prices accordingly. Efforts to regulate speculators and enforce penalties are ongoing to protect consumer purchasing power and restore confidence among consumers and traders.
Additionally, an investigation into a shipment of 2,758 tons of potatoes from Turkey, suspected to be contaminated and unfit for consumption, has been initiated by the judicial police brigade of Sousse. The shipment, intended to alleviate food shortages and stabilize the market, raised health concerns due to potential bacterial contamination, prompting discussions on health controls and import regulations in Tunisia during crises.
Source: AfricanManager