MUSCAT: As part of early preparations for Ramadhan, the Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) has stepped up regulatory and field efforts to ensure market stability and the availability of essential commodities at fair prices.
The move reflects the Authority’s continued commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and promoting a stable and sustainable consumption environment during a period that typically witnesses a surge in demand for food products and consumer goods.
In this context, the CPA convened a coordination meeting with suppliers in Muscat Governorate. The meeting was attended by Dr Ahmed bin Obaid al Saeedi, Acting Director-General of the General-Directorate for Market Regulation, along with several officials. Discussions focused on readiness plans for the upcoming Ramadhan season and mechanisms to maintain price stability.
The Authority stressed the importance of strict adherence to market regulations, underscoring that seasonal demand must not be exploited to impose unjustified price increases. It affirmed that inspection teams will adopt a firm approach toward any practices that disrupt market balance or undermine consumer rights.
Suppliers outlined their strategies to secure adequate stock levels of essential commodities, particularly high-demand Ramadhan items. Pricing mechanisms and promotional campaigns were also reviewed to ensure transparency and clarity for consumers.
Salim bin Rashid al Harthy, Director of a food supply company in Muscat Governorate, said preparations began weeks in advance to guarantee sufficient inventory. “We are in continuous coordination with international suppliers and local producers to secure strategic stock that meets market needs throughout Ramadhan,” he said, adding that fair pricing remains a priority for national companies.
Mohammed bin Saif al Balushi, owner of a shop in Muscat, highlighted the private sector’s responsibility during peak seasons. “We are introducing well-planned promotional offers that ensure consumer benefit without compromising reasonable profit margins,” he said, noting the importance of price transparency and regular updates reflecting actual cost changes.
The CPA reiterated the requirement for clear price displays on all goods and warned against misleading advertisements or promotional tactics. Inspection campaigns will be intensified across markets and shopping centres in the coming weeks, with special focus on Ramadhan-related commodities. Field teams will monitor product safety, verify commercial data accuracy and ensure compliance with approved regulations.
While emphasising that its objective is not merely punitive, the Authority said it seeks to foster a culture of voluntary compliance and a balanced market that protects all stakeholders. However, it warned that legal action — including fines and referral to the Public Prosecution in serious cases — will be taken against violators of consumer protection laws.
The CPA’s proactive approach reflects its awareness of economic variables and supply chain challenges. It continues to monitor market indicators and coordinate with relevant entities to ensure the smooth flow of goods. Consumers are encouraged to report violations through official communication channels, with swift response to complaints remaining a priority.
Beyond regulatory oversight, the Authority also called on consumers to practise responsible purchasing during Ramadhan by rationalising spending, avoiding excessive buying and planning needs in advance to reduce food waste and ease pressure on markets.
Observers note that such coordination meetings represent a preventive strategy aimed at addressing potential imbalances before they escalate.
As Ramadhan approaches and commercial activity gathers momentum, the CPA’s engagement with suppliers underscores that preparedness extends beyond stock availability to encompass integrity, compliance and social responsibility — ensuring a balanced and well-regulated market throughout the Holy Month.
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