Egypt Bans Exports of Medical Masks, Rubbing Alcohol

The Egyptian Ministry of Trade and Industry decided to ban the export of rubbing alcohol and medical masks of all kinds for a period of 3 months.

According to a publication issued by the Ministry on Tuesday, the measure is part of the Egyptian government's comprehensive plan to protect citizens from any possible negative repercussions of the novel coronavirus.

The Ministry stated that the decision will enter into force as of its publication in the Official Gazette.

It is noteworthy that rubbing alcohol, and alcohol sprays have witnessed over the past period a wave of unprecedented selling prices to citizens.

If available, the price of one bottle of alcohol in pharmacies increased from 10 pounds to more than 30 pounds, In addition to the high prices of medical masks in the local market to reach the value of 250 pounds for one package containing 50 masks, 50 pounds each.

These measures come as masks, medical gloves and alcohol are disappearing from the market, in addition to some other commodities due to exports and and rush of customers to stock up amid coronavirus fears.