Bahrain Government is extending its stimulus measures to support private-sector jobs and citizens by contributing to 50% of salary and monthly utility charges such as electricity of insured employees working in the private sector.
The decision which was in line with Royal Directives to take additional stimulus measures was arrived at following to a consultation with the Legislative Authority and the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce & Industry, stated Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Finance and National Economy Minister.
Under a scheme administrated by the Ministry of Labour along with cooperations with relevant entities, the Bahrain Government, over a period of three months starting from July 2020, will support 50% of salaries for insured citizens employed working in the private sector organizations which are most affected by the coronavirus.
Within the same 3-month period, the government will also meet citizens’ domestic electricity costs for primary residences up to the full cost of the same period in the preceding year (Bills of 2020 compared to 2019’s from the same month).
The Labour Fund (Tamkeen), according to the rules and conditions approved by its board of directors, will further support the economic sectors which are most adversely affected by the repercussions of COVID-19
“We review our necessary and targeted economic interventions on an ongoing basis, always ready to make adjustments or take additional steps, where we anticipate emerging pressures or particular sector requirements. Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa Finance and National Economy Minister – Bahrain
This additional package of measures announced is expected to further lessen stress on householders and families across the kingdom, at the same time as supporting the many jobs of those employed in the private sector, as their employers continue to respond to the unique economic challenges posed by COVID-19.
“Our COVID-19 response objectives remain unchanged – to protect the health and employment of our citizens, and the long-term strength of our economy. Until such time as we can return Bahrain to delivering strong and sustainable economic performance and growth, the government remains committed to early, targeted and effective economic intervention and support,” Mr. Al Khalifa added.
