186 cases filed for selling unsafe or non-compliant goods in 2024

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

A total of 186 cases were filed against shop owners in 2024 for selling goods without original labels, unsafe products, or items harmful to the environment or unsuitable for their intended purpose.

The violations included importing or selling products that failed to meet Bahrain’s rigorous standards. Many cases involved goods lacking country-of-origin labels, being unfit for their purpose, or posing health and safety risks.

Responding to a query from Shura Council member Lina Qassim , Minister of Industry and Commerce Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro explained that shop owners are required to disclose their suppliers, enabling investigators to trace the issue to its source.“We act decisively by confiscating non-compliant products,” he said. “Owners or suppliers must then address the issue by exporting, destroying, or recycling the goods. We also educate those responsible on the risks and warn them of further penalties if they reoffend.”

Monitoring Online Purchases

The minister also discussed the monitoring of imported goods purchased online.

Such items are inspected at Bahrain’s borders, where Customs Affairs collaborates with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce’s Inspection and Standards Directorate to scrutinise their purpose, quantity, and nature.

“For business imports, all rules and checks apply,” Mr Fakhro explained. “Personal purchases, however, are typically allowed through with less oversight.”

To enhance consumer safety, the ministry works closely with the GCC Standardisation Organisation to certify that certain goods meet approved standards. It also partners with the Ministry of Works, the Electricity and Water Authority, and the Supreme Council for Environment to issue permissions for specific imports. Customs Affairs plays a pivotal role in ensuring only compliant goods enter the local market.

Removing Harmful Products

Mr Fakhro highlighted the process for removing dangerous goods from circulation. Reports from manufacturers, the GCC Standardisation Organisation, or the Gulf rapid alert system “Aajel” prompt recalls of harmful products. “We collaborate with local agents to organise campaigns targeting every affected product, including those already sold to customers,” he said.The Inspection and Standards Directorate conducts thorough checks at Bahrain’s borders and regular inspections of local markets to enforce compliance with national standards.

Public Awareness and Compliance

To prevent future violations, the ministry conducts public awareness campaigns whenever new regulations are introduced. These initiatives educate traders and consumers about the requirements for ensuring imports meet Bahrain’s technical Lina Qassim, Shura Council member standards.