Crackdown across UAE targets price-hikers

In a massive crackdown on the shops that increase prices of essential illegally, authorities in Abu Dhabi have conducted inspections on more than 1,200 establishments. Seven outlets were fined and 29 others were warned for not adhering to set prices and regulations, said officials at the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED).

ADDED's Commercial Protection Department has conducted 354 inspections, while 870 inspections were conducted in collaboration with the Department of Municipalities and Transport and the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, across commercial facilities in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra. The inspections covered 607 restaurants, 22 sales outlets, 20 shopping centres, 152 mobile vehicles and 69 pharmacies.

Rashed Abdul Karim Al Balooshi, Undersecretary of ADDED, said the department is implementing measures to ensure stability in the local markets, which will benefit consumers and merchants. He underlined that the department will continue stringent inspection campaigns. "Our efforts are dedicated to ensure consumer protection, as well as to promote the national economy and its economic gains amid the current challenges."

'Be our eyes in the market'

ADDED has asked consumers to use digital 'consumer goods prices' services to know if products across major outlets in Abu Dhabi are correctly priced before purchasing them. Prices can be checked on www.tamm.abudhabi/ar-ae/services/tamm-ded/goodsinquiry. Consumers can search with product's name or goods category and know the exact prices.

The authority has urged general public to raise voice if they detect any violations. "Be our eyes in the market. Connect with us to register complaints, inquiries, violations or rise in prices," said Al Balooshi.