The Consumer Protection Authority recently reviewed its achievements in innovation in an event held in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation at the Muscat Innovation Complex under the auspices of Dr Ali bin Salem al Qalhati, Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs of CPA.
Aida bint Issa al Zadjaliyah, Director of the Innovation and Development Department at the Authority, shared insights into the Authority’s pioneering efforts in innovation and institutional development. Since its establishment, the Authority has emphasised innovation, culminating in the creation of the Innovation and Development Department in 2017, comprising two key sections: Innovation and Development. Al Zadjaliyah highlighted the organised and effective management system of the department, which serves as a professional and creative roadmap to achieve the Authority’s goals.
Institutional innovation is a key initiative within the Authority’s strategic plan for 2021-2025. Over the years, the Authority has focused on fostering a supportive environment for innovation and development. Notable efforts include appointing innovation representatives across various directorates and departments, establishing partnerships with entities that support innovation, and launching the Innovation Chamber.
Moza bint Abdullah al Shuailiyah, Head of the Data and Statistical Data Department, discussed the Authority’s price observatory experience. She provided an overview of the electronic price observatory, which features comprehensive data on over 72,000 commodities across 24 sectors, including food and luxury goods. The system allows for detailed data entry at both the governorate and local levels and offers consumers the ability to compare prices across different branches of commercial centres.
Khalifa bin Hamoud al Raqqadi, Director of the Information Technology Department, presented three models of institutional innovation within the Authority. These included the remote attendance system via smartphones to enhance time management and performance, the office phone application system for inspectors to facilitate communication and fieldwork, and the digital identity initiative on the Authority’s website (Hima). These innovations aim to improve efficiency and effectiveness in monitoring market regulation and combating commercial fraud.
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