Economy and trade

Morocco eyes privatization to fill its budget deficit

The 2019 finance bill shows a return of the privatization process in Morocco as a step in the direction of opening up the economy, but economists believe this is the ultimate proof of a failing fiscal policy.

Morocco

Sanctions push Rouhani to boost state involvement in Iran’s economy

The impact of the re-imposed US sanctions has forced the Rouhani administration to shift its market-oriented approach to the economy to focus on active involvement by the state.

Iran

Turkey’s first 'communist' grocery chain goes global

Led by Turkey’s first and only communist mayor, the small town of Ovacik boasts a flourishing farming cooperative whose organic products have taken customers across the country by storm.

Turkey

Can new PM make Iraq's grand plans a reality?

Iraq's new prime minister is making the economy a priority, but some question whether he will be able to tackle longstanding roadblocks that threaten his plan's success.

Iraq

Humor helps Egyptians let off steam during potato crisis

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's comments about youth obesity and a potato shortage at a recent youth conference have unleashed a wave of sarcasm on social media, giving disaffected Egyptians an opportunity to vent their frustration with the rising cost of living.

Egypt

Turkey's Finance Ministry, Moody's have opposite views on economy's direction

Moody's sees the Turkish economy as likely in recession, while Erdogan's son-in-law says positive results are on their way.

Turkey

Iran’s plan to sell oil on local energy exchange could boost economy

Iran’s plan to develop an alternative channel to monetize its oil through a local energy exchange faces many obstacles but holds real potential of boosting domestic capacities.

Iran

Turkey's skyrocketing food prices show no sign of slowing

Ill-advised policies over the decades have reduced Turkey to a net food importer despite its significant agricultural potential, fueling a dramatic increase in food prices that deals the hardest blows to the poorest citizens.

Turkey

Al-Bab’s historical covered marketplace back in business

Store owners at a market in al-Bab have reopened their shops, which were heavily damaged in the fight against the Islamic State.

Syria

Egypt turns jails into economic hubs to outpace inflation

As commodity prices continue to increase, Egyptians are resorting to products made in prisons under the government’s policy to encourage detainees to work and learn trades.

Egypt

Sudan, Egypt mend fraying ties

Sudan decided to lift the ban imposed on Egyptian imports more than a year ago, which raises questions about the impact of this decision on the Egyptian economy in the coming period.

Egypt

Turks spooked as government's inflation efforts fall flat

Inflation has hit a new recent high of 25% in Turkey and the president's son-in-law and finance minister is struggling to convince the public his anti-inflation plan is getting anywhere.

Turkey