A government pledge to spare no effort to ensure price stability throughout the holy month of Ramadan has been made by Industry and Commerce Minister Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, who stressed that sufficient stocks of essential goods are available and that markets across the kingdom are offering competitive prices and attractive discounts.
Speaking during the weekly parliamentary session, Mr Fakhro responded to two questions submitted by Parliament’s legislative and legal affairs committee vice-chairman Mohammed Al Ahmed and MP Lulwa Al Romaihi, outlining a comprehensive strategy to protect consumers and regulate markets.
“We are keen to guarantee the stability of prices during Ramadan, with adequate strategic reserves of essential commodities and a wide range of competitive offers in different markets,” Mr Fakhro told MPs.
He said the ministry continues to encourage the commercial sector to provide Ramadan goods at reasonable prices and has urged traders to commit to fixed discounts throughout the holy month under initiatives such as the ‘Consumer’s Friend’ programme.
“Through co-operation with retailers, we seek to ensure that consumers can access their daily needs at affordable prices, while also supporting fair competition within the market,” he added.
Mr Fakhro revealed that the ministry is currently studying amendments to the Consumer Protection Law to keep pace with rapid changes in the market.
“Consumer protection is a top priority for us. We are continuously developing our legal and legislative tools to enhance safeguards for all segments of society,” he said.
He also highlighted strengthened partnerships with the private sector, including the signing of memoranda of understanding with major service providers to resolve consumer complaints directly before they are escalated to the ministry.
“These agreements have helped speed up solutions and improve satisfaction levels among consumers,” the minister noted.
The minister pointed to extensive awareness campaigns carried out in co-operation with government bodies such as the Ministries of Youth Affairs and Education and universities, aimed at educating citizens and residents about their rights and obligations as consumers.
“These efforts have delivered tangible results,” Mr Fakhro said, noting that consumer complaints dropped by 16.3 per cent in 2025 compared with 2023.
“The number of complaints fell from more than 7,600 cases to around 6,400 in 2025, which reflects growing awareness and improved compliance among businesses.”
On repeated violations, Mr Fakhro said the ministry applies a graduated approach, escalating to stricter legal action against persistent offenders.
“Our economic policy is based on regulating markets, promoting fair competition and preventing monopolistic practices or price manipulation,” he stressed.
He disclosed that more than 60,000 inspection visits were carried out during 2025, alongside continuous monitoring of price movements and investigation of any unjustified increases.
“When a violation is proven, the necessary measures are taken, which may include referral to the Public Prosecution,” he warned.
Among the key national initiatives supporting market stability, Mr Fakhro cited:
- The ‘Consumer’s Friend’ initiative, which offers discounts of no less than 38pc on high-demand goods during Ramadan.
- Exempting some commercial establishments from promotional campaign fees during specific seasons such as holidays.
- Honouring cooperative businesses that actively support consumer protection efforts.
- Signing service-level agreements with private sector companies to accelerate complaint handling.
Mr Fakhro reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to intensifying market oversight and deepening cooperation with the private sector.
“Our goal is clear: to ensure a stable market, fair prices and strong protection for consumers at all times,” he said.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))