Shura members target telemarketing with tough new rules

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

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If you’re fed up with constant telemarketing calls, relief could be on the way. Bahrain is poised to join other GCC countries in taking action against these intrusive sales calls.

Legislators have tabled a proposal to regulate telemarketing practices and enhance consumer privacy.

Under the proposed rules, companies that fail to comply will face strict penalties, including warnings and, in severe cases, even the risk of closure.

Shura Council members are set to vote on the proposal next Sunday, drawing inspiration from the UAE’s policy, which limits marketing calls to the hours of 9 am to 6 pm.

This move comes as a response to the increasing number of complaints about unwanted calls disrupting daily life.

The proposal, spearheaded by Council members Lina Habib Qasim, Dr. Jehad Al Fadhel, Dalal Al Zayed, Hala Fayez, and Hesham Al Qassab, outlines clear guidelines for telemarketing companies.

Once approved, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce will oversee the implementation of the rules.

The proposal calls for companies to avoid contacting consumers at inappropriate hours, respect do-not-call requests, and ensure transparency by clearly identifying themselves and the purpose of their calls.

Countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar already have similar regulations in place.

The UAE, for example, restricts marketing calls to between 9 am and 6 pm and mandates that companies properly introduce themselves and respect consumers’ privacy.

The Shura Council members backing this initiative believe these changes will create a more respectful marketplace for consumers and businesses alike.