Strategic Stock Bill Withdrawn Over Legal Ambiguity

TDT | Manama

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Withdrawal

Parliament withdrew the draft law on strategic stockpiling of goods after concerns arose over legislative inconsistencies in definitions and penalties.

The bill, discussed under the report of the Public Utilities and Environment Committee, aimed to regulate the storage of essential goods. However, debate quickly shifted from the objective of food security to the precision of the legal wording itself.

The Minister of Shura and Representatives Affairs cautioned that the title and terminology of the draft could create confusion between “strategic stock of goods” and “strategic goods stock”, warning that such variation carries legal consequences when linked to enforcement and sanctions.

Particular attention was drawn to the broad definition of “supplier”. The draft extended the term to include anyone involved in importing, exporting, manufacturing, marketing, storing or selling goods. MPs were told that this expansive wording could blur accountability and complicate enforcement.

Comparisons were made with legislation in neighbouring Gulf states, where definitions are narrower and typically limited to producers or importers.

Penalties

Concerns were also raised regarding Article Three, which obliges suppliers to maintain stock and notify the ministry, with penalties that may reach one year imprisonment or fines of up to BD5,000. The central question was who exactly would bear legal responsibility under such a wide definition.

Review

In light of these observations, the report was withdrawn and referred back to the government for reconsideration. The move reflected parliamentary insistence on technical precision before advancing legislation tied to national food security and regulatory enforcement.

Reconsideration

In the end, Parliament opted for caution. The report was withdrawn and referred back to the government for further review, signalling that when it comes to legislation affecting national supply chains, precision is essential, not optional.