As Muslims prepare for the start of Ramadan, Beirut residents are flocking to markets to buy food before prices rise. The economic crisis casts a shadow over the Islamic month this year, as the Lebanese economy suffers from slow growth, a large budget deficit, and huge debts. The government is holding open sessions to approve a draft austerity budget in the country, while media outlets have reported leaks about steps that may include reducing social services and benefits for employees. The prices of vegetables, fruits and other items usually rise during the month of Ramadan due to high demand, and shoppers said this year that spending has become more difficult. For more on Euronews: Saudi Arabia is investigating the sighting of the crescent of the holy month of Ramadan on Saturday evening