Retail outlets commit to reduced prices of essential commodities for Ramadan

Dubai: Cooperatives and major retail outlets have agreed to work with the Ministry of Economy to support the reduction of prices of essential commodities during Ramadan, with the initiatives worth Dh200 million, said Dr Hashim Al Nuaimi, Director of the Consumer Protection Department in the Ministry of Economy.

Some 4,700 commodities are set to be included within this scheme, as part of the agreement between the outlets and the Ministry of Economy. Some of the essential commodities will be offered at discounted rates of up to 70 per cent.

For the month of Ramadan, the Ministry of Economy has announced action plans to ensure maximum consumer protection and held more than 50 meetings with suppliers of basic commodities.

During the meetings, the ministry recommended that suppliers increase imports of supplies by 30 per cent during the month to avoid shortages.

“Daily imports of vegetables and fruits in the Dubai market alone is 11,000 to 12,000 tonnes and is expected to increase to about 16,000 tonnes in Ramadan,” said Dr Al Nuaimi.

He added that the prices of 3,500 essential commodities have also been locked to prevent an increase in their prices, which marks an increase of 500 commodities from last year. Dr Al Nuaimi said that tags will be attached to products indicating that they are among the commodities with a locked price.

“In many of the retailers and outlets the ministry has installed 2,200 devices so far that reveal the real price of a product for consumers to double-check and we look forward to installing up to 3,000 of these devices,” he said.

The Director of Consumer Protection emphasised the importance of voicing complaints and suggestions in order for consumers to get what they deserve.

“The public can call the ministry’s hotline 600522225, which will be active from 8am to midnight for complaints and suggestions,” Dr Al Nuaimi said. He said that the ministry will also contribute to improving the consumer experience through its consumer protection team which will carry out approximately 350 visits to ensure prices are maintained.

“We also set up screens in many of the retailers that display presentations on responsible grocery shopping habits during Ramadan and tips for consumers,” Dr Al Nuaimi added.

He clarified that prices will remain the same before, during and after Ramadan. However, should the consumer notice any changes, it is their responsibility to notify the ministry.