Comoros faces strike threats after fuel price hikes and new economic measures

Days after President Azali Assoumani addressed the nation on the economic consequences of the conflict in the Middle East, the government of Comoros has officially introduced a series of measures including fuel price increases, new public transport fares, and temporary tax relief on essential imported goods.

The decisions, announced this week through government decrees, have already sparked calls for strikes from transport unions and traders.

Fuel prices have risen sharply across the country, with diesel increasing by more than 46%, gasoline by over 33%, and kerosene by nearly 29%. Kerosene is widely used by low-income households for cooking, making the increase particularly sensitive for vulnerable communities.

Public transport fares have also been revised upward as operators struggle to cope with rising fuel costs.

As part of accompanying measures, the government announced a 40% reduction in customs duties on several essential products, including rice, flour, and cooking oil, for a period of three months. Authorities also highlighted additional support measures such as cuts to allowances for some senior officials, reduced fuel allocations within the public administration, the maintenance of electricity prices, and the continuation of social assistance programs.

Drivers and Traders Announce Strike Action

Despite these measures, opposition to the reforms is growing.

The National Union of Drivers launched an indefinite strike starting Sunday, May 10, criticizing what it describes as a lack of consultation with stakeholders. The union says it is not demanding higher transport fares, but rather a reduction in fuel prices, arguing that transport workers will continue operating at a loss even with the revised fare structure.

Meanwhile, the Comorian Consumers Federation has warned about the risks of price speculation, the impact on low-income households, and what it sees as insufficient market price controls.

Later on Sunday evening, mobile water vendors and the National Union of Traders also announced plans to join the strike movement, raising concerns about potential disruptions to daily life and economic activity across the islands.