On the third day of Eid Al Fitr

H.E. Abdulla bin Touq conducts inspection visit to Lulu Hypermarket in Sharjah to monitor price stability and ensure adequate supply of goods

• Consumer buying activity continues normally without signs of stockpiling amid ample supply and stable market

H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Consumer Protection, conducted an inspection visit to Lulu Hypermarket in Sharjah on the third day of Eid Al Fitr. The visit forms part of ongoing efforts to monitor price stability in the markets and ensure the availability of food commodities in sufficient quantities to meet consumer demand in light of ongoing regional developments.

The visit aimed to assess the readiness of retail outlets to handle increased demand during the Eid period and to ensure the availability of fresh and diverse essential food products in adequate quantities, reflecting the Ministry’s commitment to consumer welfare and market stability. The tour covered various sections, including fresh produce, bakery, meat, fish, and dairy, as well as other essential goods, to ensure product diversity, quality, and consistent availability for consumers.

H.E. Bin Touq affirmed that the UAE has a robust and advanced food security system that does not rely solely on local stockpiles but is supported by an extensive network of trade partnerships with global markets, enabling access to multiple alternative food sources in the event of supply disruptions.

H.E. added: “The UAE possesses advanced logistics infrastructure, including world-class ports, multiple shipping routes, alternative transport channels, and an efficient air and land transport network, in addition to modern storage and handling facilities. This positions the country as a regional hub for food distribution and strengthens its ability to manage supply chain disruptions without affecting market continuity, ensuring the consistent availability of essential goods to consumers at all times, including during peak seasons and holidays.”

H.E. highlighted the pivotal role of major retail outlets in the UAE in ensuring the smooth flow of goods across markets, serving as a direct link between supply chains and consumers. He further noted their contribution to price regulation and stability by managing supply volumes and meeting growing demand.

The visit also highlighted the availability of a range of offers and discounts on consumer goods such as rice, oil, eggs, dairy, and poultry, driven by increased supply and a wide variety of options for consumers. This reflects retailers’ commitment to meeting household needs during peak seasons and holidays by providing essential products at high quality and competitive prices, thereby supporting purchasing power. Consumer buying activity continues at normal levels, with no signs of stockpiling or unusual demand, amid ample supply and stable market conditions.

Yusuff Ali M.A., Chairman of Lulu Group International, said: “We are working closely with our global sourcing offices and other suppliers to ensure uninterrupted availability of food products and maintain price stability across all our stores in the UAE.”

He added: “To date, we have imported more than 5,000 tonnes of fruits, vegetables, meat, and other perishable and non-perishable food products from around the world through 26 chartered flights and cargo vessels.”

He continued: “I extend my sincere thanks to the wise leadership of this great nation and all relevant government entities for their proactive initiatives and support during these challenging times.”

The Ministry of Economy and Tourism, in cooperation with local economic development departments, continues its efforts to enhance market monitoring through specialised teams, alongside the use of its e-price monitoring system, which enables real-time tracking of prices. The system covers 627 major retail outlets, including cooperatives, hypermarkets, and large stores, representing around 90 per cent of the country’s internal trade in essential consumer goods, thereby strengthening price stability and protecting consumer interests.

The Ministry affirmed that in the event of any violations, shortages of goods, monopolistic practices, fraud, or unjustified price increases, the public is encouraged to contact the Ministry directly via 8001222 or email at info@moet.gov.ae to report violations, contributing to protecting consumer rights and ensuring market stability.