Tunisia Fuel Hike: Decision to raise cost of fuel and gas angers many

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The cost of fuel and gas has once again increased in Tunisia. It is part of the government's plan to limit state subsidies to the energy sector and reduce the budget deficit. The decision has angered many Tunisians. CGTN's Adnen Chaouachi reports from Tunis.

Tunisia ministry of Energy, mines and renewable energy has raised the prices of fuel by 50 millimes. The 2.85 percent increase was imposed on the 1st day of the new year. The decision was previously approved in a ministerial meeting.

"This is the second increase in 6 months after a 6-point-75 percent increase in July. It is unacceptable that we pay for this government's mistakes and lack of economic vision."

ADNEN CHAOUACHI TUNIS, TUNISIA "The authorities have also raised natural and propane gas prices. The hike in electricity cost and energy bills in general worries Tunisian consumers. Many say they are shocked by the very high cost of living in Tunisia which has increased dramatically in the past 7 years."

Tunisians have criticized the tax hikes and the reduction of government subsidy. The 2 projects have been included in the 2018 state budget.

AHMED GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE "In seven years, the purchasing power of the middle class has decreased. We're already just surviving. Increasing the energy bill in winter is an irresponsible decision."

MPs of the ruling parties assert that the increase aims to reduce deficit and control state subsidies.

MONGI HARBAOUI MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT, HEAD OF PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATIONS "Raising the cost of fuel and gas is a painful but necessary economic reform. We hope to reduce the budget deficit from 6 percent of gross domestic product in 2017, to 4.9 percent this year. We must make sacrifices for our country."

In the last months of 2017, Tunisia witnessed a wave of protests before the adoption of the 2018 state budget by 134 MPs. Experts now warn against an escalation of social unrest in Tunisia. AC. CGTN.