View of Tripoli, in northern Lebanon. (Credit: Illustrative photo by Philippe Hage Boutros/L’Orient-Le Jour)

Wartime price gouging under scrutiny as authorities step in

The economy ministry has referred a case to the financial prosecutor targeting importers, distributors, retailers, and generator operators accused of exploiting the war to raise prices, with more cases likely to follow.

by · L'Orient Today

Economy and Trade Minister Amer Bsat announced Tuesday that he had urgently referred a case to the financial public prosecutor targeting importers, distributors, retailers, business owners and generator operators.They are suspected of price manipulation, monopolistic practices, and exploiting the exceptional conditions created by the war between Hezbollah and Israel.According to L’Orient-Le Jour, this case may be just the beginning. Other investigations are reportedly underway, some involving prominent business figures — though their progress could be hindered by political pressure.In legal circles, the decision to refer the case to the financial public prosecutor is seen as significant. Until now, such cases were typically handled by the Beirut Court of Appeal’s prosecutor, where proceedings could drag on for months or even years...

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