Don’t panic! There is no shortage of food and essential items in the market, reiterated a top trader following panic buying in some outlets by concerned customers.
Following yesterday’s Iranian missile attack at the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet base in Juffair, several stores witnessed shoppers suddenly stocking up on groceries and meat products.
The Industry and Commerce Ministry urged members of the public not to resort to stockpiling, adding that markets continue to operate normally, as the authorities continue to monitor the situation both in the public and private sectors.
It added that field visits to markets, storage facilities and warehouses have been scheduled to verify the stock readiness and availability with local manufacturers, and if required increase production capacity to maintain food security.
“There is enough stock of basic food stocks secured for more than six months, which means there is no shortage and no need to panic buy at this time,” Bahrain Chamber’s Food Sector Committee head Khalid Al Amin also told the GDN yesterday.
“The strategic reserves of basic commodities include oils, rice, milk, sugar and other food items.”
He added that local markets are witnessing excess stocks due to the availability of fresh Bahraini vegetables, including leafy greens, during this period, which further supports price stability.
“We continue to communicate with traders to ensure there is enough stock without any shortages,” he added.
Meanwhile, petrol stations witnessed a sudden surge of patrons throughout the day as drivers were eager to keep their fuel tanks full in case of an emergency.
Police patrols were also stepped up across the kingdom, especially around critical infrastructure, with ambulances on standby in Juffair.
The missile attacks also led to temporary closures of all sites of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquity, as well as social clubs, like Bahrain Rugby Club.
The Bahrain Chamber which was scheduled to hold its majlis last night also postponed it due to the volatile situation, as did a number of other leading businesses.
“Due to the current circumstances and in the interest of public safety, the Bahrain Chamber announces the cancellation of the Ramadan gathering,” it said on its social media post yesterday. Sporting events were also postponed.
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