Aden (South24)

Yesterday, the Yemeni government approved a collective rise in prices that included raising the customs duties by 50% and raising the prices of fuel and basic commodities.

According to Reuters, the Supreme Economic Council issued a decision to raise the price of the US dollar used in customs duties from 500 Yemeni riyals to 750 riyals.

The Council also approved the gradual increase in the prices of electricity and water services, and the liberalization of the prices of domestic gas and oil derivatives.

A document obtained by "South24 Center" showed the directives from the Supreme Economic Council headed by Prime Minister Maeen Abdulmalik.

The document, whose authenticity was confirmed by sources, indicated that these measures come "within economic reforms and the strengthening of state resources."

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In the capital city Aden, domestic gas prices witnessed a remarkable increase (13,000 riyals per cylinder) after the measures entered into force.

Local sources confirmed the high prices of many commodities in the markets in Aden and other governorates, except for basic commodities such as wheat, rice and medications.

The steps coincided with the cessation of oil production and export in South Yemen due to the Houthi attacks on oil ports late last year.

The latest attack on the Dabba oil port on November 21 caused extensive damage to the oil export pump. "South24 Center" received exclusive photos of the damages. 

Earlier today, the STC President and PLC member Aidarous Al-Zubaidi called for regional and international intervention to save the deteriorating economy.

In a meeting with the British ambassador to Yemen in Riyadh, Al-Zubaidi called to provide additional support to resume the oil production and export process.

"True peace begins with saving citizens' lives, and protecting economic facilities from Houthi attacks that threaten the lives of millions," he added.

In a meeting yesterday with the French ambassador, Al-Zubaidi stressed the need to carry out substantial reforms in the government structure and support institutions to provide services to citizens.

On January 7, the PLC approved the formation of a Crisis Cell headed by Maeen Abdulmalik, just days before the approval of the latest measures.