‘Buy what you need only, don’t stockpile foodstuff’

She called on the consumers to buy only what they need and to refrain from excessive stockpiling. She pointed out that many food items have expiration dates, which could result in spoilage if they are unnecessarily stored in large quantities. She explained that differences in prices between some cooperative societies are normal, as certain goods are offered under promotional discounts for limited periods that may not be available simultaneously in all cooperatives. She said the union monitors prices through regular inspection tours to ensure that cooperatives comply with the issued circulars regarding pricing, stressing that cases of price gouging or manipulation are extremely rare. She added that there is continuous coordination between the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of Social Affairs to monitor markets and address violations, emphasizing that food security in the country is stable and that goods remain available to both citizens and expatriates. Meanwhile, Dr. Bader Al-Enezi, Head of the Budgets and Financial Control Department at the Ministry of Social Affairs, confirmed that once the emergency plan was implemented, goods were supplied to cooperative societies.

“Any shortage was addressed immediately through companies, with alternative products provided when necessary,” he explained. In a televised interview, Al-Enezi reassured the public that the situation is normal, stating that in cooperation with the Ministry of Commerce, goods are also available through other outlets. He explained that when demand for a particular item rises remarkably, sales are regulated to maintain adequate stock levels for everyone, with ongoing coordination with companies and the Ministry of Commerce to accelerate supply. He pointed out there was initially a surge in demand for water, but several companies opened their warehouses and supplied the relevant authorities with the required quantities. He added that all commodities – water, food, supplies, gas or other consumer goods – are monitored round the clock to ensure their continued availability.

He pointed out that prices are monitored by the Ministry of Commerce, explaining that some items were previously been sold at discounted rates – below their original price, and have now simply returned to their normal price without any increase. He added “in the event of any isolated cases of artificially inflated prices, we address them immediately and notify the Ministry of Commerce inspectors to take the necessary measures, including legal action, suspending the sale of the product, and withdrawing it from the market.” He then urged everyone to purchase only what they need.