Libya lifts taxes on foodstuffs

Libya to 'remove tariffs and other taxes on food products, including basic necessities, as well as milk for children.'

Middle East Online

Following unrest in Algeria and Tunisia TRIPOLI, - Libya is eliminating all taxes on food staples and children's milk products, an official said on Monday. The government has decided to "remove tariffs and other taxes on food products, including basic necessities, as well as milk for children," the official said. It was not specified whether the move was linked to unrest in neighbouring Tunisia and Algeria over soaring food prices. The official also said that Libya had spent 6 billion dollars last year on subsidies for basic necessities including fuel and medicines. The decision comes amid unrest in Algeria and Tunisia. Unprecedented protests escalated in Tunisia over the weekend over food prices and unemployment, with officials saying 14 people were killed in clashes between protesters and security forces. In Algeria, at least five people were killed and hundreds injured in riots linked to rising food costs and unemployment since January 5.