Lotfi Riahi: “Price of Zgougou exceeded 50 dinars per kilogram, this is unreasonable” [Video]

In a statement to Tunisie Numérique, Today, Monday, September 2, 2024, the head of the Tunisian Consumer Guidance Organization, Lotfi Riahi voiced concern over the steep increase in the price of “Zgougou” this year, which has surpassed 50 dinars per kilogram.

Riahi noted that these prices are unreasonable, particularly when compared to the same period last year when the price of one kilogram of Zgougou varied between 25 and 30 dinars. Despite being the same product and available in about the same quantities—95 tons last year compared to around 105 tons this year—there appears to be no justification for the sharp increase in prices.

Riahi further explained that the “Zgougou” is generally harvested three months in advance and stored, with storage costs inexplicably reaching up to 20 dinars per kilogram. He stressed that while agricultural holdings produce approximately 400 tons, only 100 tons are brought to market, enabling market manipulation. He underscored the necessity for measures to prevent such practices in the future.

Riahi also confirmed that the organization has called for setting a standardized price for “Zgougou” and urged consumers to boycott the product until prices fall or an official pricing structure is established.