MUSCAT – In a public advisory issued online, the Ministry stressed that such practices violate commercial regulations and undermine the safety and convenience of shoppers. It reminded consumers to ‘Know Your Rights Before You Shop’, pointing out that electronic payment systems are not optional for many types of businesses. Authorities explained that e-payment protects consumers and makes shopping easier.

Several categories of businesses are required by law to provide electronic payment options. These include gold and silver shops, groceries, restaurants and coffee shops, electronics shops, building materials, industrial zone activities, malls, gift markets and tobacco sellers.

The Ministry further explained that reports should be submitted through the Tajawob platform whenever a business fails to provide an e-payment service, imposes extra charges for using e-payment, and hides the payment device or claims network issues to force a private account transfer.

According to the Ministry, failing to report such violations allows them to continue unchecked, ultimately harming the broader shopping experience.

Consumers can file complaints directly through the Tajawob platform.