Inspections of shops and businesses have been stepped up as the country gears up to celebrate Eid Al Adha.
Measures are being taken to ensure food prices remain stable and are not manipulated, it has been revealed.
Teams from the Industry and Commerce Ministry have inspected several stores and hypermarkets across the four governorates to ensure there is no price gouging and that offers or promotions are transparent.
“Inspectors have been visiting markets and shops in anticipation of the rush of visitors and demand during this period,” said the ministry assistant under-secretary for control and resources Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Ashraf.
The judicial officers specifically visited stores selling clothes, perfumes, Bahraini sweets and other items that are high in demand during Eid Al Adha.
In addition, the team checked the prices of the goods to ensure they matched with the discount offers and that there was no violation.
“No serious violations were detected by the judicial officers; all minor violations were dealt with swiftly.
“It is vital to protect consumers and ensure fair commercial transactions during the Eid holiday when the stores and malls are crowded with shoppers.”
The teams will continue with their visits and any reports of commercial violations or incorrect promotional offers will be investigated.
Meanwhile, Mr Al Ashraf said that central market in Manama has also been inspected.
“This was to ensure there is ample stock of meat, fish and vegetables, and that there is no indication of any shortage.”
The GDN reported earlier this week that more than 43,000 cattle heads are set to be slaughtered during Eid Al Adha.
Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry Under-Secretary for Agriculture and Animal Wealth Dr Khalid Hassan had said that more than 26,636 heads of sheep and cows have been imported, while 16,600 heads were expected to arrive before the Eid on Sunday.
He added that 6,735 tonnes of frozen red and white meat have also been imported, while 228 permits have been approved to import frozen red meat and white meat (poultry) ahead of the festival.
People were also being advised not to buy animals from cattle yards without having them checked by veterinary inspectors to ensure they are healthy and fit to be slaughtered.
The public has been urged to report any violations to the Industry and Commerce Ministry’s Consumer Protection Directorate at 17007003 or email inspection@moic.gov.bh.
Grievances can also be registered through the National Suggestions and Complaints System, Tawasul.
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