Naftali Bennett Pledges to Break Food Monopolies to Cut Israeli Living Costs by 30%

Naftali Bennett, chairman of the Yachdav party, unveiled his economic plan aimed at reducing the high cost of living in Israel by targeting dominant food monopolies such as Tnuva, Strauss, Diplomat, Shestovitz, and Shufersal. He promises to lower food prices by 30%, resulting in an annual savings of approximately 8,000 shekels for the average Israeli family.

The plan includes aggressive regulatory measures to dismantle monopolies and reduce market concentration. Key initiatives involve mandatory breakup of monopolistic brands, prohibiting exclusive importers from distributing major brands, and banning monopolies from controlling small suppliers or acting as sole distributors. Specific actions will address Shufersal's regional monopoly by requiring the sale of stores in monopolized areas and limiting the opening of new branches like "Shufersal Sheli."

Additionally, the program proposes reducing regulation and import barriers, supporting farmers through fixed grants, loans with state guarantees for mechanization and efficiency improvements, and aligning Israeli agricultural conditions with those of European farmers before opening the market to competition. Bennett’s party also plans to reform kosher certification by breaking the Chief Rabbinate’s monopoly, increasing competition, and offering consumers a variety of kosher certifications without changing the official approval process.

Bennett emphasized the need for courage to confront entrenched monopolies and powerful interest groups, criticizing current government ministers for their fear of tackling these issues. He assured that his approach will protect Israeli workers, increase competition, and withstand attacks from vested interests to ultimately reduce prices for consumers. The plan builds on previous legislative efforts during Bennett’s premiership, including a law initiated by then-Religious Affairs Minister Matan Kahana to end the Chief Rabbinate’s kosher monopoly, which is now facing opposition in the Knesset.

Summary: Naftali Bennett has launched a comprehensive plan to dismantle major food monopolies in Israel, aiming to cut food prices by 30% and save families around 8,000 shekels annually through regulatory reforms, increased competition, and support for farmers.