File photo of a shopping cart used for representation
Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Qatar has released a set of guidelines for responsible shopping, urging the community to avoid excessive stockpiling.
In a social media announcement, the Ministry confirmed the continued availability of goods and products across various retail outlets in Qatar, ensuring that the consumer needs are met sufficiently and regularly.
The Ministry called for adherence to official guidelines, purchasing according to actual need, and promoting a culture of responsible consumption.
A key guideline issued is to obtain information from reliable official sources and to avoid rumors that may lead to unnecessary panic-buying. It further urged buyers to adhere to instructions issued by official authorities.
The Ministry advised families to focus on their actual requirements, suggesting they buy according to their needs for a reasonable period and avoid purchasing large quantities out of concern.
To encourage responsible behaviour, the Ministry recommended shoppers identify essentials goods such as food items, necessary medications, and children’s supplies and stick to buying items from a shopping list to avoid random or unnecessary purchases.
Further on it urged buyers to distribute purchases across available retail outlets rather than shopping at a single store. "Shop at alternative outlets, when available, to reduce crowding and keep goods accessible," said the Ministry.
To stabilise the markets and ensure smooth supply chain, the Ministry has allowee 60 retail outlets to stay open 24 hours a day.
Additionally, the Ministry called on the public to report unjustified price increased in market by contacting the ministry through the hotline 16001 or via the Ministry of Commerce and Industry App.
