The recent announcement by a major retailer that it will sell many essential items either at subsidised or discounted prices during the holy month of Ramadan is laudable.
Retail major Al Meera has said it plans to sell more than 650 products, including many essential items during the holy month. With many outlets across Qatar, and more being added as part of the retailer’s expansion plan, Al Meera’s initiative will certainly have a positive impact on prices of many consumables.
The country’s other major retailers are also expected to offer consumer items at special rates during Ramadan.
Already, the Consumer Protection Department (CPD) at the Ministry of Business and 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, there are still complaints about exorbitant rates or lack of prescribed quantity in many hotels and restaurants. This is not to suggest that everyone is at fault.
Many consumers feel that the prices fixed 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 often 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 matching quantity.
There may be attempts by some greedy traders to overcharge consumers, especially during Ramadan. This must be dealt with sternly.
In the past, many food and non-food items were made available at reduced prices in the local market during Ramadan following directives by the Consumer Protection Department (CPD).
Retailers were then not permitted to sell commodities at prices higher than that fixed by the CPD. Major food items included in the list were edible oil, flour, fish and poultry products, milk, frozen vegetables, pastries and juices. Non-food items included foil paper, tissue paper and several hygiene products.
In the coming weeks the authorities are expected to come out with a detailed list of commodities included in the “price freeze list” during Ramadan.
But efforts by the law enforcement authority need the support of 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 Department of Consumer Protection at the Ministry of Business and Trade.
They must also keep a tab on hygienic conditions in restaurants and other public places, especially during Ramadan. Any violation must be reported to the authorities concerned immediately.