Economist Abdel Rahman Al-Mashhadani predicted today, Tuesday, that the exchange rate of the dollar in the parallel market will surpass 160,000 dinars for every 100 dollars, amid continued high demand for foreign currency and conflicting statements regarding monetary policy and the exchange rate.
Al-Mashhadani said in a press interview reviewed by "Video News Agency" that it is not surprising for the dollar to exceed the 160,000 barrier at a time when a member of the finance committee asserts that the exchange rate is fixed at 150,000 dinars, while another member speaks about changing the currency, and yet another talks about removing zeros, which are issues that are not within the deputies' jurisdiction.
He added that the continuation of such statements does not serve market stability but rather increases uncertainty among citizens and those dealing in dollars, noting that the market is quickly affected by any talk related to the exchange rate or currency.
Al-Mashhadani continued, saying that the demand for the dollar remains high, especially from travelers and traders who do not wish to import through the (ASYCUD) system, which keeps the demand for foreign currency ongoing and places additional pressure on the exchange rate in the parallel market.