Retail markets have been warned against increasing the prices of essential food items in an unjustifiable manner.

The Industries, Commerce and Tourism Ministry called on all establishments not to exploit the rise in value-added-tax, which came into effect yesterday.

The ministry reaffirmed that violators will be penalised. Eight karak shops which inflated the prices of tea were closed yesterday following inspection campaigns.

“The shops increased prices while using food items exempted from VAT,” said a statement released by the ministry last night (Jan 1).

“They exploited the readjusted VAT and took advantage of the extraordinary circumstances and their offences are punishable under the Consumer Protection Law.”

The ministry urged the public to report violations on 17111346, 17111252 or 17111278 or through Tawasul, inspection@moic.gov.bh or the hotline 80008001.

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