Trends are visible in the local market of increasing prices of some essential commodities, which if not curbed, might again fuel consumer price-linked inflation in the country.
Some retailers, especially neighbourhood groceries, have seen overcharging consumers, and they attribute higher prices to rising rents and other expenses.
The fact remains that rent is increasing, both for commercial and residential properties, across the country.
Barring some essential items, whose prices retailers cannot alter, many products have seen an increase in the last few months. These include both food and non-food items.
And there are complaints about many hotels and restaurants either overcharging consumers or reducing the prescribed quantity in many instances. This is not to suggest that everyone is at fault.
The Consumer Protection Department (CPD) at the Ministry of Business & Trade, as part of its commitment to safeguard consumer rights, combat commercial fraud, facilitate competitiveness and prevent monopoly practices, is closely monitoring the market. The department has taken stern action against many offenders and is determined to book those who violate the law of the land.
While the department’s action has had the desired impact on the local retail market, consumers feel food rates at many hotels and restaurants are still exorbitant.
Many consumers feel that the charges levied by some eateries on dishes are higher when compared to the neighbouring GCC countries. To those who raise the issue directly with the eateries concerned, the explanation usually given is centred on higher production costs owing to rents and wages.
While there may be some substance in this, eateries should not be allowed to fix rates or reduce quantity arbitrarily. All eateries must be forced to display their menu list with prices clearly marked and the quantity offered.
Qatar’s inflation based on consumer price index (CPI) rose 2.6% in March compared to the same period in 2013, the Ministry of Development Planning & Statistics recently said.
An effective tool against inflation is price regulation. In the past the government had used regulatory powers to prevent traders from imposing “unjustified” price hikes on consumers.
Inflationary pressures in Qatar appear “contained” at the moment, but policymakers need to remain “vigilant”, the Fund has cautioned.
Efforts by the law enforcement authority need the support of the people of this country, if they are to succeed.
All clear cases of fraud on consumers must be immediately brought to the notice of the Consumer Protection Department at the Ministry of Business and Trade.
They must also keep a tab on hygienic conditions in restaurants and other public places. Any violation must be brought to the notice of the authorities concerned immediately.