Food supplies stable

TDT | Manama

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Despite ongoing regional uncertainties, Bahrain’s food supply chains continue to remain largely stable, according to officials and market vendors.

To ensure the uninterrupted availability of essential goods, the Food Sector Committee held a comprehensive virtual coordination meeting, bringing together government authorities and private sector stakeholders to review the situation and discuss measures to maintain smooth supply chains.

The meeting highlighted that close coordination with shipping companies helps direct shipments to the most suitable ports, minimizing delays and ensuring a steady flow of supplies.

Khalid Al Ameen, Head of the Food Sector Committee at the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the committee is working closely with government entities and industry partners to safeguard the steady flow of food supplies across the Kingdom.

“We are taking all necessary measures to ensure the smooth flow of food supplies and to prevent market disruptions or exploitation of current conditions,” he said.

Al-Amin highlighted that visits by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to local markets, echoing His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s approach to national stability, motivate continued coordination between public and private sectors.

Additionally, LuLu Group’s initiative to facilitate the arrival of over 100 tonnes of essential food items to Bahrain via special repatriation flights operated by the national carrier, Gulf Air, from Dammam is reassuring, underscoring its steadfast commitment to supporting food security in the Kingdom.

Price

Speaking to The Daily Tribune, a vendor at Manama’s Central Market said fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cabbage, and lettuce continue to arrive regularly from Saudi Arabia and Yemen, and the initial wave of panic buying has eased.

However, some items that are usually imported directly by air, including tomatoes, onions, and chillies from India, fruits like blueberries, are currently being routed through Oman or Saudi Arabia before reaching Bahrain.

While this logistical adjustment has led to minor price variations, the overall supply remains steady.

Increase

Lemons have also recorded a modest increase. Tomatoes are currently priced between 350 and 400 fils, while coconut price fluctuates from 300 to 400 fils.

Compared to other GCC countries, Bahrain continues to maintain relatively stable prices, with most essential food items remaining affordable for consumers.