Price Controls
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Bahraini national legislation, decree-laws, and ministerial orders.
Bahraini National Law
What is this right?
Bahrain regulates prices on certain essential goods and prohibits unfair pricing practices:
- Price monitoring: The MoITT monitors prices of essential goods including basic food items, fuel, and construction materials to prevent unjustified price hikes.
- Price gouging: It is illegal to artificially inflate prices during crises, emergencies, or supply shortages. The MoITT can impose fines and penalties for price gouging.
- Subsidies: The government provides subsidies on certain basic goods (such as flour, meat, and fuel) to keep them affordable. These subsidies are periodically reviewed.
- Price display: All retailers must clearly display prices on products or shelves. Charging more than the displayed price is a violation.
- Anti-hoarding: Hoarding goods to create artificial scarcity and drive up prices is prohibited and punishable by law.
When does it apply?
- You noticed a sudden or unjustified price increase on essential goods.
- A shop is charging more than the displayed price at the checkout.
- You suspect a business of hoarding goods to drive up prices.
What should you do?
- Check the displayed price before purchasing and compare it to the amount charged at checkout.
- Report overcharging or suspected price gouging to the MoITT by calling 17007.
- Take photos of price tags and receipts showing the discrepancy.
- For widespread price issues, report to the Consumer Protection Directorate with details about the location and products.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not pay without checking — always verify the price charged matches the displayed price.
- Do not panic buy during shortages — this contributes to hoarding and price inflation.
- Do not assume all prices are regulated — only certain essential goods have price controls.
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