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Tribune News Network
Doha
THE Ministry of Economy and Commerce (MEC) has carried out a surprise inspection campaign targeting retail outlets in a number of malls to monitor their compliance with consumer protection law and ministerial decision on discounted sales.
The inspections resulted in seven fines for the absence of Arabic labels on packages and violation of discounts and promotion licences, which represent a violation of Article (7) of law No 8 of 2008 and Ministerial Decision No 5 of 1984 on discounted sales.
The MEC withdrew the licences of three outlets that have violated the terms of the discount and promotion licence granted by the ministry.
It stressed that retail outlet owners should adopt the 'Shop with Confidence' mark before announcing discounts and promotional offers. The mark should be placed on invoices given to customers, as it informs the consumers that the shop has obtained the required licence from the MEC and that the promotions and discounts are in line with legal regulations.
The ministry warned retail shops to offer real promotions and refrain from fake and misleading discounts and practices that harm consumers. It has also urged consumers to compare the product price before and after the discount and the promotional period. Consumers should ask for a detailed invoice with the actual and discounted prices.
The inspection campaigns came within the framework of the ministry's efforts to monitor markets and commercial activities as well as to crack down on price manipulation and uncover violations in a bid to protect consumer rights.
The MEC has urged all consumers to report violations to its consumer protection department.
