Gulf Daily News

Manama, Mar 11: Traders who cheat consumers face jail and/or massive fines under a proposed new law.

Culprits face up to three years in jail and/or fines of up to BD10,000 under a draft proposed and passed by the Shura Council yesterday.

Their businesses could be closed for good if they continue to break the proposed new consumer protection law.

The council's proposal will now go to the government, which is drawing up its own draft.

They will be merged to create watertight protection for consumers, Industry and Commerce Minister Dr Hassan Fakhro told Shura Council members at their weekly session yesterday.

The council draft stipulates jail sentences of up to three years and/or fines of up to BD5,000 for those who cheat the public by producing or selling sub-standard or counterfeit goods, or deliberately mislead consumers through false advertising.

Those who import sub-standard or counterfeit goods face up to a year in jail and/or fines of up to BD10,000. Culprits will be obliged to replace the goods or refund the buyer.

A new watchdog will be formed to monitor prices and goods being sold in the market, under the Shura Council proposal.

It would also arbitrate in disputes between consumers and merchants.