The Ministry of Economy (MoE) has detailed its strategy to enhance the oversight of product and service prices in the nation’s markets throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan.
The primary objective is to establish a resilient consumer ecosystem aligning with global standards, fostering a balanced trade-consumer relationship within the UAE. This initiative was announced during a media briefing held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Dubai. The comprehensive plan includes intensifying collaboration with strategic partners to reinforce the enforcement of consumer protection laws.
A pivotal aspect of the strategy involves educating consumers on legislative frameworks governing the market, specifically focusing on pricing policies for essential goods. By promoting awareness of consumer rights and responsibilities during purchases, the Ministry aims to empower individuals to make informed choices, thereby encouraging a culture of mindful and informed consumption.
This multifaceted approach reflects the Ministry’s commitment to elevating the consumer experience in the UAE, ensuring fair practices, and upholding global benchmarks for consumer rights and protection.
Abdullah Sultan Al Fan Al Shamsi, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Monitoring and Follow-Up Sector at the Ministry of Economy, emphasized the significant strides made by the UAE in formulating an extensive regulatory framework dedicated to safeguarding consumers and upholding their rights. He highlighted the continual efforts of the Ministry of Economy in fostering collaboration with both federal and local government entities, with a particular emphasis on the Supreme Committee for Consumer Protection.
Al Shamsi further emphasized the ongoing engagement with the cooperative and private sectors, as well as various stakeholders. This concerted effort aims to establish a secure and conducive environment for consumers, ensuring their confidence and protection in both product purchases and service utilization. The collaboration underscores the Ministry’s commitment to creating a robust regulatory landscape that prioritizes consumer welfare and rights in the UAE.
In 2023, the Consumer Protection Department at the Ministry orchestrated over 26 meetings with essential goods suppliers, including those dealing in cooking oil, eggs, dairy products, rice, sugar, poultry, legumes, bread, and wheat. Abdullah Sultan Al Fan Al Shamsi, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Monitoring and Follow-Up Sector, stated that these efforts were geared towards guaranteeing an abundant supply of essential items to meet consumer needs during Ramadan 2024.
Al Shamsi reiterated the UAE’s dedication to strategic supply policies, reinforced by explicit directives and leadership support. These measures aim to curb unwarranted price increases for essential items, such as cooking oil, eggs, dairy, rice, sugar, poultry, legumes, bread, and wheat, ensuring that such adjustments cannot occur without prior approval from the Ministry.
The enhancement of consumer rights and price regulation in UAE markets have been solidified through the amendment of Federal Law No. 15 of 2020 on consumer protection by Federal Decree Law No. 5 of 2023. This revision imposes more than 43 obligations on suppliers and introduces extensive regulatory measures to foster fair business practices. The Ministry is set to actively oversee Ramadan promotions, including discounts of up to 50%, encompassing approximately 4,000 commodities available in cooperatives.
The surge in promotions during Ramadan 2024 is attributed to increased competition, abundant supply, and heightened consumer awareness. These factors, coupled with the comprehensive amendments to consumer protection laws, are expected to contribute to a more transparent and consumer-friendly marketplace during the holy month.
Enhancing Consumer Protection Through New Initiatives
Furthermore, Al Shamsi delineated a series of forthcoming initiatives slated for implementation in the next phase by the Ministry of Economy, in collaboration with pertinent federal and local authorities, as well as economic development departments. These initiatives are strategically crafted to bolster consumer safety, enhance competitiveness, and promote overall prosperity in the country.
Among the key initiatives is the establishment of a national team dedicated to monitoring the prices of essential consumer goods. This measure aims to ensure fair pricing practices and maintain affordability for consumers. Additionally, the introduction of a comprehensive code of conduct is planned to strengthen the contractual relationships between outlets and suppliers, fostering a transparent and equitable business environment.
In addition, a strict supervision system will be put in place to guarantee that retailers honor unit prices. Vigilant observation will be conducted, and any anomalies in the cost of necessities will be dealt with appropriately. Together, these programs demonstrate the Ministry’s dedication to strengthening consumer protection laws, encouraging ethical business conduct, and establishing an atmosphere that promotes long-term economic growth.
Enforcement of Market Inspection Tours
The Ministry of Economy performed around 96,200 inspection tours in 2023, finding 6,645 breaches. In January and February of 2024, an additional 620 inspections were carried out. These endeavors are directed toward market surveillance, evaluating merchants’ adherence to price labeling, curbing commercial fraud, and addressing instances of trademark infringements.
Abdullah Sultan Al Fan Al Shamsi underscored the significance of offering consumers alternatives, fostering flexibility in product choices that align with budgetary and quality considerations. Consumers were actively encouraged to participate in market monitoring by reporting any violations or suggesting ideas for consumer protection through accessible communication channels.
Abdullah Sultan Al Fan Al Shamsi underscored a crucial aspect of conscious consumerism by highlighting the significance of retaining purchase invoices. This practice, he emphasized, plays a pivotal part in confirming that consumers’ rights are covered. By retaining invoices, consumers not only have a record of their transactions but also possess tangible proof of their purchases, enabling them to assert their rights in case of disputes or discrepancies.
The continuous combined actions with appropriate authorities further exemplify the Ministry’s commitment to consumer rights protection. Through these joint initiatives, the aim is not only to safeguard individual consumers but also to fortify the overall competitiveness of the market. By establishing a robust framework for consumer protection, the UAE endeavors to position itself as a sustainable and trustworthy destination for major brands. This multifaceted approach reflects the Ministry’s dedication to fostering a fair and transparent marketplace, where both consumers and businesses can thrive in a mutually beneficial environment.
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