499 commercial violations recorded in Medina in preparation for Ramadan
The Ministry of Commerce, through its branch in the Madinah region, intensified its field monitoring efforts in markets, shopping centers, and retail outlets as part of its proactive seasonal plan for the holy month of Ramadan. These intensive campaigns resulted in the detection and immediate issuance of 499 citations for violations at various commercial establishments, ensuring market stability and protecting consumer rights.
Details of inspection tours and announced figures
Official statistics released by the ministry branch revealed that inspection teams conducted over 10,523 field visits to supermarkets, grocery stores, wholesale and retail markets, and warehouses in the region. These visits aimed to ensure establishments' compliance with regulations. The teams also addressed 3,241 consumer complaints, handling them immediately and taking the necessary legal action against violators.
Strategic context and importance of oversight in Medina
These inspection tours in Medina are of exceptional importance, extending beyond the local level, given the city's religious significance and the large influx of visitors and pilgrims before and during the holy month of Ramadan. The Ministry is working within a comprehensive national strategy aimed at enhancing food security and ensuring the stability of supply chains during peak seasonal periods. This monitoring effort is part of the Kingdom's ongoing endeavors to improve the quality of life and enhance the business environment, in line with the objectives of Vision 2030, which focuses on consumer protection and creating a fair and competitive investment environment.
Ample stock and stable prices
In a related context, the Ministry affirmed that operations in Madinah's markets are proceeding smoothly and normally, with ample food supplies available to meet the needs of citizens, residents, and visitors. Monitoring operations include verifying the availability of essential and Ramadan-related goods, monitoring price indicators to prevent any manipulation or exploitation of increased demand, and ensuring product safety and compliance with Saudi standards and specifications.
The consumer's role in oversight
The Ministry of Commerce consistently emphasizes the importance of community partnership in monitoring, urging all consumers to report any commercial violations they observe, whether related to pricing, commercial fraud, or refusal to sell. Reports can be easily submitted through the "Commercial Report" application, by calling the unified reporting center at 1900, or via the Ministry's official website. All reports are handled with complete confidentiality and seriousness.
