PM directs authorities to intensify market monitoring ahead of Ramadan

AMMAN — Prime Minister Bisher Al Khasawneh on Sunday directed the concerned ministries and institutions to fully prepare for Ramadan, follow up on all issues related to availability of commodities, monitor prices and food safety and alleviate burdens on citizens.

Chairing a Cabinet session, Khasawneh stressed the need to constantly ensure the sufficiency of basic commodities and their availability in adequate quantities in local markets, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

The prime minister also directed stakeholders to intensify monitoring of commodity prices to prevent overpricing, ensure foodstuff safety and implement health requirements, stressing that citizens should feel the impact of these government efforts on the ground.

The premier referred to the role played by the civil and military consumer corporations in providing commodities and food supplies at reasonable prices and making "competitive" offers, which would contribute to controlling prices, ensuring availability of commodities and alleviating burdens on citizens.

In addition, Khasawneh stressed the need for coordinating with administrative governors on charity campaigns, scheduled to be held during Ramadan in a bid to prevent any irregularities that may occur.

Meanwhile, Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply, Yousef Shamali, briefed the Council of Ministers on the ministry's preparations in coordination with other ministries and relevant institutions on goods’ stocks and market monitoring measures.

Stressing that all basic commodities are available for "good periods" at stable prices, Shamali said that no overpricing or exaggerated prices were observed in the local market.

The ministry, alongside other supervisory authorities, is constantly monitoring markets and establishments and will intensify monitoring campaigns during the coming days and throughout Ramadan, Shamali said.

He noted that the ministry has "strict" tools to control any violations, primarily overpricing, monopolising goods, or violating foodstuff safety and citizen health.