Parliament yesterday unanimously approved an urgent proposal to tighten oversight of instalment sales – especially in electronics stores – amid allegations of unclear contracts and hidden fees.
The proposal, submitted by five MPs led by Hamad Al Doy, has been referred to the Cabinet for review.
Mr Al Doy said the rapid expansion of instalment sales in the kingdom had created regulatory gaps that must be addressed.
“We are seeing a noticeable increase in instalment-based sales, especially in electronics stores, which attract young people and middle- and low-income families,” he told MPs. “However, this expansion has been accompanied by complaints about lack of transparency in contracts, unclear disclosure of the actual cash price versus the instalment price, and vague details about profit margins, fees and late-payment penalties.”
He warned that electronics have become essential household items and many consumers now depend on instalment plans to afford them.
“Any weakness in regulating this activity may result in financial burdens exceeding the consumer’s real capacity,” Mr Al Doy said. “This can lead to accumulated obligations that threaten the financial stability of families.”
The proposal calls for stricter monitoring of stores engaged in instalment sales, mandatory clear and upfront disclosure of all contractual terms, and verification of compliance with consumer protection laws.
“It is essential that consumers know exactly what they are signing,” Mr Al Doy stressed. “Full transparency strengthens confidence in the local market and prevents legal disputes.”
He added that empowering authorities to take immediate legal action against violators would enhance deterrence and demonstrate the seriousness of enforcement.
The Cabinet is expected to study the proposal and respond with recommendations.
Other proposals approved are:
- Call for clear criteria for the selection of mosque caretakers and Moathins (prayers’ callers).
- Allowing people to buy unused or unneeded government land strips adjacent to homes for family expansion.
- Establishing an independent governmental body or Supreme Council for Food Security to develop food and health policies, oversee implementation strategies and supervising the kingdom’s strategic food reserves.
- Establishing a national stadium in Muharraq Governorate.
- Setting up a new health centre in Busaiteen (Al Sayah).
Meanwhile, a draft law on Bahrain’s strategic food reserves has been postponed for an undisclosed period. Originally submitted by the Shura Council, it aims to ensure sufficient, sustainable and safe quantities of essential goods are available at all times, particularly during crises and exceptional circumstances.
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