Economic researcher Mohamed Al-Safi stated to our source about his presentation of a lecture on the experiences of some countries in reforming the fuel subsidy policy, including 18 countries around the world. He emphasized the importance of lifting subsidies with confidence among citizens and direct communication with them to increase transparency. He highlighted the importance of using the funds to build human capital by providing job opportunities and a suitable environment. Decision-makers should study the concerns that may arise from political division and security problems that may result from smuggling before implementing the subsidy removal plan.
Al-Safi explained that during the lecture, it was suggested to maintain the current situation and provide a gasoline card to all citizens. This would shift the support from being direct subsidies to gasoline companies, and from subsidies to citizens who would then pay the companies, or it could be entirely replaced with cash.