Ramadan Discounts 1445: The Ministry of Commerce issues 2,000 licenses for 5 million products

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In a proactive move aimed at bolstering market stability and meeting consumer needs during the annual peak season, the Ministry of Commerce announced the issuance of 1,987 licenses for discounts and promotional offers to commercial establishments and online stores across Saudi Arabia. This initiative is part of the "Ramadan Discounts" season, which officially began on the 13th of Sha'ban and is scheduled to continue beyond Eid al-Fitr, covering the busiest shopping period of the year.

Comprehensive coverage of over 5 million products

Official data released by the ministry revealed that the licenses granted cover a wide range of over 5 million products, providing diverse options for citizens and residents. The list of products included in the discounts encompasses essential and luxury goods that are in high demand during this season, most notably:

Food and consumer goods (the backbone of the Ramadan table).
Electrical and electronic devices.
Fashion, clothing, and holiday essentials.
Perfumes and cosmetics.

Economic context and the importance of timing

This step is particularly important given the Kingdom's consumption patterns during the months of Sha'ban and Ramadan, when markets experience their highest purchasing activity of the year. The Ministry of Commerce works annually and systematically to regulate these promotions to ensure there is no price manipulation or misleading offers that exploit consumer needs. This regulation contributes to creating a fair competitive environment among merchants, which positively impacts consumer purchasing power and stimulates the retail sector, a vital contributor to the non-oil economy.

Digital empowerment and consumer protection

As part of the Kingdom's digital transformation, the Ministry has provided technological tools that empower consumers to be active participants in the oversight process. The Ministry explained that shoppers can easily verify the legitimacy and validity of discounts by scanning the QR code (barcode) required on the discount permit using their mobile phone camera. This technology allows consumers to instantly access:

Type of discount and its percentage.
Offer validity period.
Official data of the facility.

This transparency aims to eliminate deceptive practices and enhance trust between the merchant and the consumer.

Strict monitoring to ensure compliance

In parallel with issuing licenses, the Ministry of Commerce confirmed the continuation of its field and electronic inspection tours of establishments throughout the Kingdom. These tours aim to ensure that stores adhere to the approved discount regulations, that advertised prices match those at the checkout counters, and that advertised goods are available. The Ministry encouraged establishments wishing to offer promotions to utilize the streamlined electronic licensing services available on its official website, which simplifies procedures and expedites business operations.