Abu Dhabi :  The Ministry of Economy is stepping up inspections on shops and outlets to crack down on fake commodities, control prices and protect customers.

The inspections are carried out under the directives of Sultan Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy, to contribute to creating a balanced economic environment and push ahead with the vehicle of economic development.

Abdullah Al Hussaini, Director of the Trade Control Department, said that the inspections are in line with the Ministry of Economy's strategy to provide a healthy investment environment in important sectors, which is a necessity for the development and growth of the UAE economy.

"The inspections are being carried out in accordance with the trade control rules and regulations. It aims to suppress commercial fraud in transactions, protect intellectual property and consumers and commercial agencies," he explained.

Aim

"Our aim is to improve the trade control department's current performance, and control national trade in cooperation with the local authorities. It is important to adapt to the development of the UAE and protect its reputation," he added.

Al Hussaini noted that the Trade Control Department held meetings with the concerned authorities in order to increase the efficiency of inspections. He also said that any complaints provided by the public are being followed through and any violations found against the trade control laws are being dealt with accordingly.

The Ministry of Economy also released statistics for the inspections carried out in 2009. A total of 32,679 inspections were carried out and resulted in 4,520 fines issued.