MUSCAT – The violations, documented between early March and mid-April, include 172 cases linked to price increases – primarily in the fruits and vegetables sector. The highest number of offences was reported in Muscat (79 violations), followed by South Al Batinah, North Al Sharqiyah, and North Al Batinah, with fewer cases recorded in other regions.

The Authority said the crackdown forms part of its broader regulatory mandate to monitor goods and services, enforce compliance among suppliers, and maintain market balance. Legal action has been taken against violators, alongside efforts to strengthen coordination with relevant entities to ensure continuous availability of essential goods.

The inspections come amid rapid economic changes, prompting the Authority to scale up field monitoring and enhance rapid response mechanisms to curb practices that could disrupt pricing stability or harm consumers.

As part of its targeted measures, the Authority also carried out intensive oversight at the central “Silal” fruits and vegetables market, tracking supply flows and pricing trends. While overall product availability remained stable, prices were found to fluctuate due to seasonal and supply dynamics. Violations by some suppliers were identified and addressed immediately in line with regulations.