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SEDD to monitor markets during Ramadan

Sharjah - In preparation for the holy month of Ramadan, the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) has held a meeting at its headquarters with representatives from the Ministry of Economy and a number of foodstuff dealers to discuss the current situation in the market, as well as possible pre-emptive measures to help find solutions to monopolization and price hiking during such seasons.

The meeting formed part of the Department’s joint endeavours with the relevant government departments particularly the Ministry of Economy to control and stabilize prices and ensure the availability of quality products at reasonable prices not only throughout the year, but also during Ramadan.

SEDD, in cooperation with the Ministry of Economy, has developed a plan that includes conducting regular inspection visits to markets during the holy month of Ramadan.

The Department is calling on traders not to store merchandise in order to ensure that prices remain stable during the holy month, as per article No. 14 of the Federal Consumer Protection Law No. 24 of 2006 and the executive regulations thereof, which stipulate that suppliers are not allowed to hide any commodities with the purpose of controlling and increasing prices.

SEDD is also warning traders against publicizing commodities or services that may mislead or deceive consumers. The role of the consumer is to be aware and not to buy commodities in excess during Ramadan, therefore the demand will not rise, and consequently prices will not increase.

In addition, consumers are advised to ask for a dated receipt for every transaction with details of the commodities purchased. This is necessary to protect consumers’ rights, according to SEDD.

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