City Commerce Department records 499 violations and conducts 10,000 inspections before Ramadan
As part of its intensified efforts to regulate markets and protect consumers with the approach of the holy month of Ramadan, the inspection teams of the Ministry of Commerce branch in the Madinah region conducted a large-scale field campaign, encompassing more than 10,523 field visits to various retail outlets and commercial establishments in the region. These actions are part of a comprehensive seasonal plan aimed at ensuring market readiness and the availability of essential and Ramadan-related goods at reasonable prices and high quality.
Results of inspection tours and observed violations
The intensive inspection tours resulted in the monitoring teams addressing 3,241 commercial complaints received from consumers, reflecting a growing public awareness of the importance of the regulatory role. The teams were able to identify and immediately issue 499 violations against establishments found to be non-compliant with applicable commercial regulations and bylaws. These violations ranged from the absence of price tags and discrepancies between displayed and cashier prices, to violations related to product weight and expiration dates.
General context and the importance of proactive monitoring
These inspections are particularly important at this time of year, as the holy month of Ramadan witnesses a significant increase in purchasing power and demand for food and consumer goods. The Ministry of Commerce works proactively and regularly during such seasons to prevent any attempts to exploit the increased demand by unjustifiably raising prices or promoting substandard goods. Medina, with its religious significance and the large number of visitors it receives during Ramadan, receives special attention to ensure the stability of supply chains and meet the needs of residents, visitors, and pilgrims.
Proactive inspections of bakeries and factories
In a related context, the ministry branch indicated that it had conducted proactive, targeted inspection tours specifically of bakeries and factories producing various types of bread and Ramadan products. These visits aimed to verify compliance with officially approved weights and prices, and to strictly enforce the regulations regarding fines and penalties against violators. Field teams confirmed during their tours that market operations were proceeding smoothly and efficiently, with sufficient stock of essential goods available in both quantity and variety to meet anticipated demand.
Invitation to consumers to participate in monitoring
In conclusion, the Ministry of Commerce reiterated its call to all consumers to be partners in the oversight process, emphasizing the importance of immediately reporting any observed violations. Citizens and residents can easily submit reports through the "Commercial Report" application, by calling the unified reporting center at 1900 , or via the Ministry's official website. All reports are handled promptly and with utmost seriousness to ensure a fair and regulated business environment.
