Minister downplays mall shop closures

TDT | Manama

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“ Shops within any mall rise and fall with the wider market. Some businesses have chosen to relocate, move online, or reorganise their operations entirely.”

Industry and Commerce Minister Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro said this in response to questions about support for shopkeepers. MP Hassan Ibrahim noted that at least 40 shops have closed inside shopping malls across Bahrain since the start of the current legislative term.

He also asked for detailed data on closures per mall, the number of affected malls, and the total number of commercial registrations withdrawn over the same period. In his written reply, Mr Fakhro did not provide exact figures but emphasised the important role shopping centres play in the national economy. He noted that malls are typically managed and promoted by their owners or private operators.

When asked whether the ministry had conducted any studies or gathered data on why some businesses were closing, the minister gave no indication that such research had been carried out.

Regarding potential collaboration with mall owners to offer rent reductions, incentives, or support for struggling shopkeepers, Mr Fakhro said the ministry works “regularly” with relevant bodies to assist small and medium-sized enterprises across the country, regardless of location.

He pointed to efforts aimed at easing legal and procedural hurdles and highlighted the government’s goal to sustain commercial activity and encourage investment.

Mr Fakhro added that shop owners are free to choose locations that best suit their needs, whether inside a mall or elsewhere. No specific initiatives were mentioned to revitalise shopping malls or reposition them as attractive destinations for shoppers and visitors.