A new operations centre that will be working around the clock to address violations relating to price gouging has been activated by the Industry and Commerce Ministry.
It aims to ensure all establishments comply with rules and regulations and do not attempt to exploit the current extraordinary circumstances.
The centre will also work to streamline clearance procedures and the movement of goods, expedite the entry of essential commodities, monitor alternative transport routes, and address any urgent logistical challenges.
A partnership with the private sector has also been established to ensure the continuous provision of basic commodities without interruption or delay in co-operation with suppliers.
“The ministry confirms the activation of a 24-hour Operations Centre and the appointment of a liaison officer to all suppliers of essential goods,” it said in a statement yesterday.
“Furthermore, several measures have been taken to ensure the availability of essential food stocks and prevent price manipulation during this exceptional period,” it added.
The ministry also announced that a month-long inspection campaign was conducted from February 28 to March 28 to ensure that no establishment engaged in price gouging or sought to exploit the prevailing circumstances.
A total of 470 complaints have been received by the ministry so far, leading to 1,231 inspections, and the detection of 80 violations concerning food commodities and prices. An additional 732 general violations were detected and quickly corrected by the establishments.
Inspection campaigns will continue in the coming weeks to ensure that shops and markets do not manipulate prices and that all food and essential commodities remain readily available.
The Inspection Directorate recently visited 102 retail outlets across Manama, Hidd, Diyar Al Muharraq, East Riffa and Isa Town to verify prices, ensure the availability of goods, monitor violations and assess compliance with the law. During these inspections, a shop selling flashlights at unjustifiably inflated prices was shut down on Friday. The violators have been referred to the Public Prosecution for legal action.
The GDN yesterday reported that Inspection Directorate director Mona Al Alawi praised establishments and warehouses for complying with rules and regulations. She stated that violations have been limited and minor, reflecting a strong level of awareness and co‑operation within Bahrain’s markets.
A warning was also sent to establishments, stating that the ministry would not hesitate to take legal action against violators who commit acts such as price gouging.
People can report violations to the ministry by contacting its Consumer Protection Directorate on 17007003, or by emailing consumer_protection@moic.gov.bh. They can also contact the Inspection Directorate directly by dialing or sending a WhatsApp message to 17111252 or through their email at inspection@moic.gov.bh.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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