Traders decry recession

“If talks fail, we will go on strike”

Merchants are planning escalatory moves in reaction to the failing economic situation. Representatives of the commercial and retail sector gathered on August 28 to discuss the possible measures. “The local economy has drifted towards recession since mid-August,” said Nicolas Chammas, president of the Beirut Traders Association. He said the retail sector has lost half of its output during the past few months.

Traders said they will hold deliberations with government institutions and politicians before taking any action. “Should talks fail, protests will include closing down shops, and could go up to civil disobedience,” traders warned.

Reported by Hanadi Chami