Essential Prices Under Parliamentary Scrutiny

TDT | Manama

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Control of essential commodity prices and enforcement of consumer protection law will come under direct parliamentary scrutiny during the Nineteenth Ordinary Session of the Fourth Annual meeting of the Sixth Legislative Chapter, as MPs press for clearer mechanisms to safeguard market stability.

Accountability

MP Lulwa Ali Al Romaihi has submitted a question to the Minister of Industry and Commerce regarding the current mechanisms in place to monitor and regulate the prices of basic and consumer goods. The inquiry seeks detailed clarification on inspection procedures, price control tools and coordination with relevant supervisory bodies.

In parallel, MP Mohamed Salman Al Ahmed has questioned the minister on efforts to implement the Consumer Protection Law in practice, focusing on enforcement effectiveness and complaint resolution mechanisms.

Oversight

The two questions, previously deferred from an earlier session, reflect growing parliamentary focus on purchasing power and market fairness. MPs are expected to seek assurances that regulatory measures are not limited to formal oversight but translate into tangible price discipline across retail sectors.

Market Confidence

With inflationary pressures and consumer costs under continuous observation, the debate is likely to extend beyond procedural explanations toward a broader evaluation of policy responsiveness. Lawmakers are positioning price stability and consumer rights as central pillars of economic confidence.

As ministers respond on the chamber floor, the session will test whether current safeguards are sufficient to protect households from unjustified price increases and market imbalances.