Ramadan discounts: The Ministry of Commerce issues 1,987 licenses for 5 million products
The Saudi Ministry of Commerce announced the issuance of 1,987 licenses for discounts and promotional offers to commercial establishments and online stores across the Kingdom, as part of the "Ramadan Discounts" season, which began on the 13th of Sha'ban and continues until after Eid al-Fitr. This step comes within the framework of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to regulate markets and ensure the credibility of offers presented to consumers during peak shopping seasons.
Product details and target sectors
The ministry explained that the discount licenses covered more than 5 million diverse products, providing shoppers with a wide range of choices. Food and consumer goods, which see increased demand during the holy month, topped the list, followed by electrical and electronic appliances, then perfumes and cosmetics, clothing and fashion, as well as Eid necessities and other assorted goods that meet the needs of Saudi and resident families.
The importance of organization during peak seasons
This measure is of paramount economic and social importance, as Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr are among the busiest periods for commercial activity in the Kingdom. By issuing these advance licenses, the Ministry aims to balance supply and demand, prevent price manipulation, and avoid misleading offers that could harm consumers. These regulations also aim to promote fair competition among merchants, which will positively impact the quality of services and prices offered to citizens and residents.
Digital transformation and consumer empowerment
In a move to enhance transparency, the Ministry clarified that consumers can easily verify the legitimacy and validity of discounts by scanning the QR code displayed on the discount permit using their mobile phone camera. This feature is part of the Ministry's digital transformation, as it immediately displays all relevant discount information to the consumer, including the type of discount, its percentage, and its duration, in addition to the establishment's basic details, thus empowering the consumer as a partner in the oversight process.
Field monitoring and market stability
The Ministry of Commerce affirmed the continuation of its intensive inspection tours of commercial establishments across all regions of the Kingdom to verify the legality of discounts and the establishments' compliance with approved regulations and requirements. These efforts aim to enhance the availability of goods in the markets and provide consumers with suitable choices, thereby contributing to market stability and meeting increasing needs. The Ministry also urged consumers to report any commercial violations through the "Commercial Report" application or via official communication channels, emphasizing that it will not hesitate to apply the prescribed penalties to violators.
It is worth noting that the ministry has enabled commercial establishments and online stores to apply for discount licenses electronically, which facilitates procedures and encourages the private sector to provide real and documented offers that serve the national economy.
