Consumer complaints have steadily declined over the past three years, while violations related to price manipulation and non‑compliance have also dropped significantly, Industry and Commerce Minister Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro has revealed.
He attributed the positive trend to ‘effective enforcement and growing market discipline’.
Official figures show that the Consumer Protection Directorate recorded 7,686 complaints in 2023, decreasing to 7,153 in 2024 and further to 6,430 in 2025 – a decline of more than 16 per cent over the three-year period. Violations also fell sharply, from 3,433 in 2023 to 1,937 in 2025.
“These figures reflect the effectiveness of our regulatory and supervisory efforts, as well as increased compliance by commercial establishments,” Mr Fakhro said in a written response to a parliamentary question by MP Mohammed Al Ahmed.
According to the ministry, the highest number of complaints in 2025 were related to electrical and electronic appliances (1,478 cases), followed by contracting services (707), clothing and footwear (631), vehicles (608) and foodstuffs (444). Other sectors included furniture, delivery services, tourism, health and beauty services, and household supplies.
“These classifications allow us to focus inspections and awareness campaigns where they are most needed,” the minister said.
Between 2023 and 2025, thousands of complaints were handled under Article 8(B) of the Consumer Protection Law, which governs disputes over contractual obligations. Most cases were resolved through repairs, replacements, refunds or completion of agreed services.
However, 255 cases were referred to the Public Prosecution in 2023, 354 in 2024, and 323 last year, following binding administrative decisions.
“Our approach is gradual and legally structured, starting with amicable settlement and escalating when necessary,” Mr Fakhro said. “Referral to the judiciary does not prevent us from imposing administrative penalties such as closures or licence cancellation.”
Mr Fakhro reaffirmed that Bahrain follows a free market economy, with prices driven by supply and demand, but warned that manipulation and anti-competitive practices would not be tolerated.
Market prices are monitored continuously, with periodic studies analysing supply chains, demand trends and economic variables affecting essential goods. When abnormal price increases are detected, regulatory intervention is triggered.
The minister highlighted national initiatives such as the ‘Consumer Friend’ programme, which encourages retailers to offer affordable alternatives for basic goods, alongside extended sales periods and fee exemptions for promotional campaigns.
Responding to another parliamentary question by MP Lulwa Al Romaihi, the minister outlined the mechanisms used to regulate prices, combat commercial fraud and safeguard consumers.
He explained that no food or consumer goods are subject to direct price control under current policy, except for government-subsidised flour and bread products. Subsidised flour is distributed exclusively to registered bakeries under regulated quantities, while prices of popular, Lebanese and sliced bread remain controlled under existing regulations.
The minister revealed that the Consumer Protection Directorate received 217 complaints in 2024 on price manipulation – accounting for about 3pc of total complaints received that year. Of these, 150 violations were substantiated, with legal and administrative action taken, while 67 cases could not be proven due to insufficient documentation.
Mr Fakhro confirmed strong co-ordination between the ministry and other government bodies to ensure imported goods meet approved safety and technical standards.
Products are inspected at border entry points and within local markets through inspection campaigns and laboratory testing. Non-compliant goods are barred from entry or withdrawn from circulation.
He added that the ministry works closely with Customs Affairs to combat counterfeit goods and trademark infringements, taking legal action upon receiving complaints from rights holders.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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