January 24, 2026
The economic bodies announced that they stand united with the Syndicate of Restaurant, Cafe and Nightclub Owners, confirming their full support for its position regarding “Circular No. (1)” issued by the Ministry of Tourism on December 23, 2026. This circular cancels “Circular No. (9)” issued on June 2, 2022, and obliges tourist establishments to announce their prices in Lebanese pounds only, while immediately preventing them from advertising them in US dollars.
In a statement, the bodies stressed “the necessity of standing by the legitimate private sector, especially the tourism and restaurant sectors, and providing all appropriate conditions for their continuity and growth, as they constitute one of the basic pillars of economic recovery.” She also recalled the important role played by the tourism and restaurant sector at the height of the crisis in 2023, as it, along with other sectors, served as a real supporter of the national economy and a pivotal element in maintaining social stability. The authorities considered that “the aforementioned circular came at an inappropriate time, in light of the continuing repercussions of the financial and economic crisis that the country is suffering from at various levels, indicating that it has no impact, neither negative nor positive, on consumer protection or on the cost of tourism services.”
She also pointed out that “this circular will only lead to more confusion and administrative complications, and will confuse the tourism sector and expose it to additional financial risks.” The bodies stressed “the necessity of the relevant ministries adopting the principle of prior consultation and coordination with the relevant sectoral unions when preparing to take any decisions affecting these sectors.”
The economic bodies concluded by saying: “Based on the above, we call on the Minister of Tourism, with all responsibility and caution, to retract this circular.”
