Iran to increase electronic food coupon credits for low-income households

The Iranian government is set to increase the value of electronic food coupons for low-income households. According to statements from the Minister of Economy, the monthly credit per person is expected to rise by at least 300,000 tomans. For a four-person household, this would increase the total monthly credit from 4 million tomans to 5.2 million tomans.

This increase comes amid significant food inflation. Data from the Statistical Center of Iran reported a food inflation rate of 127.5 percent in August. The coupons cover essential items including poultry, eggs, red meat, dairy, rice, oil, sugar, and legumes, with some retailers also allowing the purchase of fruits, vegetables, and seafood.

Despite the increase, concerns remain regarding actual purchasing power. Calculations suggest that the cost of a basic basket of essential goods for a four-person family may still exceed the new credit limit, potentially leaving a gap of several hundred thousand tomans due to rising market prices.