Toyota and the customs' tariffs in Lebanon

OK here's a brief recap: The Dollar for import (one of many many different Dollar parities in Lebanon) went from 1500 to 15000 Liras at the end of 2022, then went up to 45,000 Liras in February 2023, only to increase to 60,000 in April and now 90,000 as of May. Well, this basically means that Lebanon with 139% inflation rate is going to see further increase in prices.

Which brings us to some companies selling older stocks with the previous customs import prices. Ergo - Toyota Lebanon jumping on that bandwagon. You might be surprised though that cars are not top priority for the Lebanese at this point (here) but no one can blame BUMC (the exclusive Toyota and Lexus dealer for Lebanon) for trying.

Apparently what Lebanese really do want are white goods (such as refrigerators and gas stoves), because at this point cars are exceptionally expensive - even with the old import prices, and they are seen as a farfetched relic from an older economic model that no longer exists.

Burger King: The combo offer that is an inflation indicator

OK, it has been ages since I have been to any Burger King branch. Just to be clear, it is not their fault, it is me with my super minimal outing - though thrice vaccinated am still trying to limit where I go.

So, Burger King has an offer - a combo meal for 50,000 LBP.

Here's what their facebook page says about "The Prince Meal":

"Let’s tell you more about it, it’s exactly like its father the Big King XXL.

Flame Grilled, 100% Beef Patty, crispy lettuce, fresh onion, pickles, cheese slice and the famous Bing King sauce!

Available in chicken option as well."

Naturally, the interesting part is that now 50,000 is the new price for a combo. Now this is noteworthy because right before October 2019 when all hell broke lose and inflation starting increasing (before exploding completely) a combo (close to this one I presume!) was offered at 10,500 LBP (see here). So this means that between September 2019 and February 2022, the price of a combo has gone fivefold.

I think this in itself is a clear indicator where we are now in Lebanon.