MUSCAT : The crackdown targeted various sectors, with expired products topping the list at over 41,000 items. Dhofar Governorate recorded the highest number of seizures for expired goods, accounting for 48 percent of the total seizures.

Additionally, the CPA banned the circulation of over 16,000 products, with Dhofar again leading the way, making up 66 percent of these banned items. Chewing and smokeless tobacco products were also targeted, with more than 15,000 items confiscated, 43 percent of which came from Muscat Governorate.

Clothing items violating public decency were seized in significant quantities, totalling more than 10,000 items, with North Al Sharqiyah taking the lead at 52 percent.

The circulation of electronic cigarettes and shisha products was also prohibited, with over 7,000 items seized. Muscat Governorate accounted for 99 percent of the confiscations in this category, highlighting a strong enforcement presence in the capital.

While the overall number of seized products decreased by 18% compared to 2023, the reduction is seen as a positive trend attributed to growing supplier awareness and adherence to regulatory standards. Key sectors such as standards and measurements saw a 95 percent decrease in violations, while the chewing and smokeless tobacco sector saw a 48 percent drop and the counterfeit and imitation sector experienced a 49 percent decline.

The CPA has credited these improvements to the heightened commitment of suppliers to comply with laws designed to protect consumer rights. However, the Authority emphasised that it will continue its rigorous regulatory and inspection efforts to ensure a safe and compliant market.

In its statement, the CPA urged consumers to report any market violations through its various communication channels, stressing its ongoing dedication to enforcing consumer protection laws and ensuring a secure marketplace for all.

For all the latest news from Oman and GCC, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube page, which is updated daily.