Al-Baha markets are booming ahead of Ramadan: 49 commercial violations recorded
Markets and shopping centers in the Al-Baha region are witnessing a surge in economic activity and a noticeable increase in purchasing power in recent days, coinciding with the approach of the holy month of Ramadan. This high demand is part of the usual annual preparations undertaken by Saudi families to secure their needs for essential food items, supplies, and Ramadan products, amidst official assurances of ample stock and stable supply chains.
Seasonal preparations and consumer culture
This surge in commercial activity in the Al-Baha region reflects the general trend across the Kingdom in the lead-up to Ramadan, where families traditionally compete to prepare their Iftar and Suhoor meals with the finest ingredients. This extends beyond food purchases to include household items and hospitality supplies, creating a vibrant economic cycle that invigorates local markets. Relevant authorities, primarily the Ministry of Commerce, proactively monitor these peak seasons to ensure that this increased purchasing activity is governed by regulations that prevent the exploitation of heightened demand through unjustified price hikes.
Results of intensive inspection tours
As part of its efforts to regulate markets, Ahmed bin Ali Al-Ghamdi, Director of the Control Department at the Ministry of Commerce branch in Al-Baha region, explained that inspection teams have intensified their field presence to an unprecedented degree. These inspections have covered major shopping centers, public markets, and small and medium-sized food establishments. The aim of these efforts is to ensure that merchants comply with consumer protection regulations, verify the validity of products offered for sale, and confirm that prices conform to applicable regulations.
Al-Ghamdi revealed statistics on field operations during the past period, stating that inspection teams conducted a total of 448 visits. These thorough visits resulted in the detection and recording of 49 various commercial violations, which were dealt with immediately according to strict legal procedures, and the prescribed penalties were applied to the violators. He emphasized that these campaigns are not temporary, but will continue and intensify in the coming days and throughout the holy month to ensure a fair commercial environment.
The importance of oversight and the role of the consumer
These regulatory efforts are of paramount importance at both the local and national levels, as they contribute to enhancing food security and ensuring price stability during peak periods. They also bolster consumer confidence in the local market and prevent monopolistic practices or commercial fraud that may arise during periods of high demand.
In closing, Al-Ghamdi emphasized the importance of community partnership in monitoring, urging all consumers to report any observations or violations they witness. Reports can be easily submitted through the "Commercial Report" application available on smartphones, or by calling the unified reporting center at 1900. He stressed that consumer awareness is the first line of defense in guaranteeing their rights.
