Combating Covid-19: Fine up to Dh2 million for hiking prices of food, medical supplies in Abu Dhabi

The move is aimed at reducing commercial violations of hiking prices of food and medical supplies without justification, and the practice of hoarding products for monopoly during scarcity.

Abu Dhabi - The DED has issued a decree regarding violations and administrative sanctions on commercial establishments.

Ismail Sebugwaawo

Published: Sat 4 Apr 2020, 12:34 AM

Commercial establishments and pharmacies that will be caught hiking prices of food products and medicines illegally or hoarding essential items will face fines ranging from Dh250,000 and Dh2 million, according to a new directive.
Acting on the directives of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the Department of Economic Development in Abu Dhabi (DED) has issued a decree regarding violations and administrative sanctions on commercial establishments that arbitrarily increase prices of food items and medical supplies.

On the directives of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, @AbuDhabiDED has issued a decision to take disciplinary action against companies that increase prices without justification. pic.twitter.com/x2yIJWoRl5
- ???? ?????? ???????? (@admediaoffice) April 2, 2020

The move is aimed at reducing commercial violations of hiking prices of food and medical supplies without justification, and the practice of hoarding products for monopoly during scarcity.
In addition to the fines, the outlets caught in violations will be temporarily shut down and their trade licenses will be suspended for a period which is not less than a month and doesn't exceed three months.
DED said the new decision will help control the markets and protect consumer rights.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com