IBRI: As Eid Al Fitr approaches, markets and shops in Al Dhahirah Governorate are experiencing increased commercial activity, with residents purchasing essential Eid supplies. In response, a joint consumer protection campaign has been launched to ensure compliance with market regulations and safeguard public health.
The campaign, organised by the Consumer Protection Authority in collaboration with Al Dhahirah Municipality, the General-Directorate of Agricultural Wealth and Water Resources and the Directorate of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, aims to enhance coordination between government agencies in monitoring consumer markets.
Dr Sultan bin Hamid al Zaidi, Director of the Consumer Protection Authority in Al Dhahirah Governorate, emphasised that the expanded inspection and awareness initiative aligns with Oman's vision of strengthening inter-agency cooperation. The campaign follows a structured action plan to oversee establishments that experience increased demand before the holidays, including slaughterhouses, livestock pens, meat shops, fruit and vegetable markets and Omani sweet manufacturers.
With a focus on public health, the initiative prioritises food safety by ensuring that all products meet health standards, are stored correctly, and are displayed in accordance with proper guidelines. Efforts are also being made to educate both vendors and consumers on best practices for food handling and safe purchasing.
Ahmed bin Hamid al Kalbani, a health inspector at the Food Safety and Quality Department in Al Dhahirah Governorate, highlighted the department’s role in conducting extensive field visits to assess the quality of food products. The team is actively collecting samples from local markets and imported goods arriving through the Rub al Khali border crossing to test for pesticide residues and other harmful substances.
Additionally, food establishments are undergoing thorough inspections to uphold safety standards in the governorate’s markets.
This coordinated campaign underscores the commitment of authorities to protecting consumer rights and ensuring the availability of safe, high-quality products, particularly during peak shopping seasons. — ONA
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