Shops warned against Eid price hikes

Government inspectors have started to fan out through shopping centres in the UAE in a bid to deter greedy dealers from hiking prices ahead of Eid Al Fitr, when demand for food, clothes and other goods sharply rises.

The ministry of economy said its inspectors would remain on the guard this week and during Eid period to ensure tailoring, garments, shoes and food shops will not take advantage of soaring demand and raise prices.

“The ministry yesterday mounted an extensive inspection campaign on male and female tailoring shops as well as shoes and clothes shops to ensure they will not exaggerate in pricing,” said Hashim al Nuaimi, director of the consumer protection division at the ministry of economy.

“We warn all traders against any large price rise and we call upon consumers to report any such attempt by dealers…this campaign will continue through Eid Al Fitr and the ministry will not hesitate in taking action against offenders.”

Nuaimi said the ministry had already penalized 187 dealers across the UAE for violating consumer protection regulations during Ramadan, adding that fines against them ranged between Dh5,000 and Dh100,000.

“Our inspectors will also continue their visits to vegetable and fruit markets through the UAE to ensure compliance with prices.…these visits will be intensified during Eid Al Fitr when consumer spending sharply rises.”