UAE confirms six-month strategic stockpile of essential goods as authorities step up market checks across the country/Representative Photo

The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has stepped up inspections of the market to keep prices stable and ensure the supply of essential goods, assuring residents that the country has strategic reserves of key items to meet needs for up to six months.The ministry said inspection teams are conducting routine inspections at shops and retail outlets across the country. These inspections are conducted in coordination with the economic development departments of all emirates through the National Joint Monitoring Team. The move aims to prevent unreasonable price increases, curb unsound business practices and maintain close supervision of market activities.

Authorities said retailers must comply with consumer protection regulations, particularly rules on pricing of essential goods. Under current policy, traders are not allowed to increase prices of certain basic commodities without prior approval from the ministry and the state committee responsible for monitoring price changes.The rule applies to nine essential commodities: cooking oil, eggs, dairy products, rice, sugar, poultry, beans, bread and wheat.The ministry also addressed the increase in onion and tomato prices reported over the past two days. Officials said the increase was temporary and related to the impact of the regional crisis. Additional supplies of these vegetables have been shipped to the market in large quantities to stabilize supply.Authorities stressed that essential goods remain in sufficient quantities and that consumers have access to a variety of alternatives. Prices are expected to return to normal levels soon as supply continues to increase, officials added.The ministry said the UAE maintains strategic stocks of essential commodities capable of meeting market demand for up to six months. These reserves are distributed in different regions of the country through a system designed to strengthen supply chains and allow authorities to respond quickly to market needs in emergencies.Officials also confirmed that transport and supply operations through the country’s entry points are still operating normally. Supply chains remain efficient and goods reach local markets without interruption.The UAE also relies on an extensive network of international partner markets to supply imports of various commodities. This enables authorities to quickly secure alternative sources in the event of a disruption.Since the outbreak of the regional crisis, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism and local economic development authorities have carried out some 7,105 inspections of markets across the country. A total of 567 violations were found during this inspection, most of which were related to unreasonable price increases.The authorities issued 449 warnings to traders, suppliers and retail stores and imposed fines totaling Dh207,250.The ministry said monitoring activities will continue in the coming period to ensure market stability and protect consumers.Residents are encouraged to report price increases or violations through official channels. Complaints can be submitted through the Ministry of Economy and Tourism websitewww.moet.gov.aecall or send a WhatsApp message to 8001222, or email info@moet.gov.ae.Authorities also urge consumers to purchase goods according to their needs and avoid hoarding or over-buying to make goods available to everyone.