MEC steps in, takes measures to protect consumers from misleading discount sales

If you are a regular shopper in Doha, you may have seen shops advertising discount deals that were too good to be true. Believing the ads, you may have gone and purchased the item, only to find you were misled by the clever use of words.

Qatar’s Ministry of Economy and Commerce has stepped in to curb such dishonest practices by announcing Decision No 311 of 2018 regarding sales by shops at discounted prices, reported Gulf Times.

The decision was issued by the Minister of Economy and Commerce HE Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohamed Al Thani.

One of its key highlights is that retailers can announce discount sales only a day prior to the date specified in their license.

If there are more than one discount prices, the percentage of goods and services covered by the minimum discount should not cover less than 20% of total goods and services subject to discounts, according to Qatar Tribune.

The new decision also classifies discount sales into two categories — special and general. Retailers can offer special discounts during special events or festivals that take place in malls, for a day or more, to target specific loyal customers.

General discounts are those that are offered, for instance, on a seasonal basis. The ministerial decision authorises discounts of more than 50% and stipulates that special discount days shall not be deducted from seasonal discount days.

The general or seasonal discounts are now permitted over a one-month period rather than 21 days. 

The decision also has provisions to protect consumers’ rights by respecting their religious values, customs and traditions.

Discount ads shall also be free from exaggerations and misleading or deceptive claims to consumers.

In case of violations, the ministry will have the right to cancel a shop’s license, suspend discounted sales for the remaining period and remove all related advertising.