Pricing Scandal: Ministry shuts down Al Jazira Supermarket’s branch

Manama: Bahrain’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism officials closed the Janabiya Branch of Al Jazira Supermarket following violations of law related to consumer protection.

The Ministry announced in a press release that it ‘closed Al Jazira Supermarket (Janabiya Branch) for 15 days and referred the owners to the public prosecution in light of the field visits carried out by inspectors of Consumer Protection Directorate and took legal actions.’ The inspectors found out discrepancy in the pricing system.

In this regard, the Director of Consumer Protection stressed that the ministry is seeking to have a transparent and balanced relationship taking into account consumer interest and the commercial sector alike through a regulatory environment. He noted that Differing declared price from the real price is considered a clear violation of Consumer Protection Law.

The Consumer Protection Directorate confirmed that it will not tolerate in taking all legal and administrative measures to protect consumers, and appreciated consumers cooperation to report irregularities through contacting Consumer Protection Center on 17007003.

Yesterday the Ministry closed all the five Ruyan Cold stores in Bahrain for 15 days after the pricing sandal following a video circulating online showing the very known store in Bahrain apparently over charging their products and customers are overpaying. The video shows the difference in price between shelf and cashier.