Egypt extends grant disbursement hours, strengthens supply oversight

Egypt’s Minister of Supply and Internal Trade Sherif Farouk on Thursday outlined measures to ensure smooth distribution of the additional citizen grant, including extended operating hours and increased merchant allowances, the ministry said.

In a comprehensive meeting reviewing implementation across all governorates, Farouk said the ministry monitors disbursements 24/7 through daily reports and central and branch operations rooms in coordination with supply directorates and the Holding Company for Food Industries. He stressed maintaining sufficient stocks at all distribution points to prevent shortages.

To ease access, distribution hours will be extended by three hours daily during March and April, with stores now closing at midnight instead of 21:00 p.m. Citizens can also collect the 400-pound grant in up to four instalments per month to suit family needs.

Merchant substitution allowances for goods have been raised from 30 per cent to 50 per cent starting April 1, 2026, to enable faster restocking amid higher demand. Strategic reserves of key items—sugar, oil, pasta, and rice—will be regularly supplied and monitored nationwide.

Farouk confirmed the proper functioning of ration card systems and ATMs, calling for intensified field inspections to enforce price compliance, with immediate legal action against violations.

Under the programme, citizens may select items from the approved list, with monthly maximums of 4 kg sugar, 3 bottles of oil, 6 bags of pasta, and 3 kg rice, while the remaining grant can be used for other approved goods. The March grant, which began in February, will continue through March, with the April grant fully available during its month.

The minister emphasised full compliance by merchants, including clear in-store display of goods and prices, warning that violations would face immediate legal action to protect citizens’ rights and ensure system integrity.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: Y.Yasser