At least seven popular bakeries have been caught misusing subsidised flour in Bahrain, prompting a tougher crackdown and a new wave of inspection campaigns, Industry and Commerce Minister Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro has revealed.
The violations – uncovered since the start of the current legislative term in December 2022 – include improper use of subsidised flour, exceeding quotas and attempts to exploit the government subsidy system. With 417 bakeries operating across the kingdom, the minister said even a small number of violations is ‘unacceptable and taken extremely seriously’.
“These cases show exactly why strict oversight is necessary,” Mr Fakhro told the Shura Council in writing. “We are determined to ensure subsidised flour goes only to those who deserve it, and that it is used properly and lawfully.”
The minister said violators are immediately summoned, confronted with inspection findings and issued official reports.
“If a bakery repeats the violation, or if subsidised flour is found to have been sold illegally, the case is referred straight to the Public Prosecution,” he said. “The law is very clear, and enforcement will be decisive. Protecting the integrity of the subsidy system is a national responsibility.”
He stressed that the ministry’s actions reflect its commitment to safeguarding both consumers and public funds.
“These procedures constitute a robust framework to prevent manipulation and ensure fairness in every governorate of Bahrain.”
In his detailed response to parliamentary questions by Shura Council member Fouad Al Hajji, Mr Fakhro said the ministry has completely modernised the way subsidised flour is distributed and monitored.
A major reform came in 2024, when the flour distribution process was transformed into a comprehensive electronic system linked directly to Bahrain Flour Mills Company.
“This digital transformation has eliminated outdated paper processes and allows us to track every quantity dispensed with full accuracy and transparency,” the minister said. “There is no room for guesswork – every kilo is accounted for.”
To further close loopholes, the ministry introduced an automatic quota-adjustment mechanism on June 1, 2025, through an electronic link with the Labour Market Regulatory Authorit (LMRA).
“Flour quotas are now tied directly to the number of workers registered under each bakery’s commercial registration,” Mr Fakhro revealed. “This step alone significantly reduces opportunities for exploitation and ensures fair distribution across the sector.”
In another safeguard, bakeries may no longer request quota increases until one full year has passed since their last approved adjustment – a rule implemented in February 2025 to enhance sustainability and deter manipulation.
The ministry conducts comprehensive annual inspection campaigns covering bakeries in all regions of Bahrain, and steps up field visits whenever complaints arise.
“Our teams are continuously on the ground,” Mr Fakhro said.
“We verify compliance with flour usage rules, confirm adherence to approved bread prices, and ensure every bakery is following the law. Oversight is ongoing, not occasional.”
He added that the ministry would continue intensifying inspections in the coming period.
“We are fully committed to ensuring that subsidised flour is used for its designated purpose – producing popular bread at approved prices for the public. There will be no compromise.”
The minister praised the Shura Council’s role in highlighting areas needing oversight.
“We value the continuous co-operation of the legislative authority,” he said.
“Together, we are working to preserve public interest, strengthen transparency, and maintain trust in government subsidy systems.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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