A study on Yemen and al-Qat

The British economic publication The Economist said in its Tuesday issue about the "al-Qat" plant which is widespread in Yemen and its role in the Yemeni economy and social life.

In this respect, the paper said that al-Qat, a habit-forming stimulant that is usually chewed, is considered the "nerve of the economy," noting that the plant represents some 30% of the GNP in Yemen, as it is used by three quarters of the Yemeni population.

The paper added in its article which was quoted by the "Orient Radio" that al-Qat which was used to be limited to the rich and in special occasions, has now become available and abundant for the Yemeni families, which spend one fifth of their income on this plant.

The paper continued as saying that al-Qat has greatly contributed to halting migration from the Yemeni villages to the populated cities due to the great turnout for its plantation, a situation which brings money to these villages and prevents its people from migration.

Yemeni government has the greatest reason not to raise an open "battle" with "al-Qat chewing people," despite the fact that the government can discourage its use if it applies the legal tax on its use, SANA reported.