The importers division reviews an expanded Ahlan Ramadan fair

Analysts expect no immediate effect on consumer prices: current stock covers market needs at least to the end of next quarter.

The ministry’s representative stressed that the new rules aim at transparency in the supply chain rather than at fixing prices, and that breaches will go to the Consumer Protection Agency.

The figures in brief

Chamber figures put the number of registered businesses at 41,000, up by 3,400 on last year, most of them in retail and logistics.

The meeting closed by forming a joint Chamber–ministry committee, meeting weekly to follow implementation and reporting monthly to the federation’s board.

Where the divisions stand

• easier finance for small enterprises among next quarter’s priorities
• A review of the timetable with the trade divisions
• A monthly report to the federation’s board

The division head said the meeting examined the direct effect of the decision on supply inside the local market, and that the Chamber submitted a detailed memorandum carrying traders’ proposals on the timetable.