OFAKIM — Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, chairman of the Yashar Party, unveiled a plan titled "A New Agreement on the Cost of Living" on July 1, 2026. The plan proposes regulatory measures designed to lower prices by addressing monopolies, import restrictions, and barriers to competition in Israel.

Bennett spoke during a press conference in Ofakim on June 23, 2026, stating that the new agreement aims to dismantle monopolies throughout the supply chain. He indicated that the proposal includes requiring monopolies to divest brands if they hold monopolistic control over them. The plan also seeks to prohibit exclusive importers of major brands from distributing other major brands.

The proposal includes prohibiting monopolies from managing trade agreements or serving as distributors for small suppliers. Measures are also called for to address Shufersal's regional monopoly, which would require the corporation to sell some of its stores in areas where it holds such control. The plan also details restrictions on opening new branches, including Shufersal Sheli locations. "The ministers in the current government are incapable of dismantling monopolies because they are afraid," Bennett said.

The plan also focuses on supporting the agricultural sector. It proposes providing direct support to farmers through fixed grants, along with assistance programs. Grants and state-guaranteed loans would be offered to support mechanization and improve efficiency in agriculture. The Yashar Party stated, "We will bring Israeli farmers' conditions in line with those of European farmers, and only afterward will we open the market to competition." The party added, "In the war against the cost of living, the farmers will be on our side."

Additional aspects of the plan include removing regulations that restrict competition and the gradual elimination of tariffs. It also calls for increased competition in the kosher-certification market by allowing consumers to choose from a range of kosher certifications. The plan specifies that it would not alter the Chief Rabbinate's existing process for granting kosher certification.

Bennett stated that lowering prices requires courage and that he is prepared to confront entrenched interests. "We will wage a struggle against the strongest monopolies and pressure groups in the country, which have grown accustomed to no one touching them," Bennett said on June 23, 2026. He added, "I owe them nothing." He further stated, "They will attack us, but I am prepared to pay the price in order to lower prices for you." He concluded, "We will protect Israeli workers, dismantle the monopolies, and increase competition."

Why It Matters

Israel ranks fifth among OECD countries in the cost-of-living index for food products, with food prices more than 33% above the OECD average. The Yashar Party estimates that reducing food prices to the OECD average could save an Israeli family approximately NIS 8,000 annually. This plan by former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett proposes specific regulatory and support measures to address these economic conditions by targeting monopolistic practices and supporting the agricultural sector.