MUSCAT: The Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) has warned retailers and suppliers against raising prices of goods and services ahead of Eid Al Adha and the full-lockdown in Oman.

In a statement issued, CPA said it will take legal measures against violators for undue price hike. “We urge not to raise the prices of essential goods and services, such water (tankers) and cooking gas prices, other than what is specified by the concerned authority,” CPA.

According to CPA, its officials have intensified inspection campaigns to monitor prices in the markets. On Saturday, CPA took legal action against violators for raising prices at Central Market for Vegetables and Fruits. “All suppliers, retailers and service providers must exercise national responsibility and cooperate with the consumer by not raising the prices of goods and services and must not take advantage of the consumers’ need in these circumstances including during Eid Al Adha and complete closure of commercial activities and movement ban period,” CPA said.

CPA also asked consumers to report any exploitation regarding price hikes by calling the toll-free consumer line on
80079009 / 80077997 or the authority’s various communication channels on social media.