SEDD, Ministry of Economy meet livestock and meat traders to discuss pricing ahead of Eid Al Adha

This step is part of SEDD's efforts to organize economic activities in Sharjah to keep the market stable, preserve food security and protect the rights of both consumers and traders.

Hamad Omar Al Madfa', Deputy Manager of SEDD's Legal Affairs division, said:

"Preserving the market is one of SEDD's top priorities, and this meeting reflects the Department's commitment to this end. We are keen to monitor the livestock market and prevent exploitation so that everyone can celebrate Eid Al Adha in joy."

"Great efforts are being made to preserve and build the emirate's economy, and the participation of the Ministry of Economy and local institutions in this meeting is vital, providing support and legal authority, as well as reflecting SEDD's efforts and dedication to consumers," added Al Madfa'.

Commenting on the meeting, Dr Hashim Al Nuaimi, Director of the Consumer Protection Department at the Ministry of Economy, said:

"SEDD was efficient in organizing the meeting with livestock traders to discuss ways to control the livestock market and prevent exploitation or unsanctioned price increases, which can diminish joy during Eid Al Adha."

He continued, "After the meeting, we have a better understanding of the role of the Ministry and of local institutions in addressing this issue, as we all listened to what the traders had to say and will work on implementing some of their suggestions. These kind meetings are important in bringing visions together and enabling everyone to contribute to improving the relations between traders and consumers, and so ensure that the market is based on strong foundations."

Al Nuaimi stressed the importance of diversifying livestock sources and finding new sources, and of not using this period to make unseemly profits from consumers. He also announced that the Ministry of Economy, in cooperation with SEDD, will conduct field visits before and during the Eid season to ensure that consumers are not exploited and that the market is stable.

The problems faced by importers, such as re-export of livestock to neighbouring markets, were also discussed during the meeting, as these practices cause an imbalance in supply and demand in the Emirati market. Possible solutions were also discussed, as well as suggestions related to facilitating import processes by traders from other countries, such as Australia. Traders were particularly amenable to this suggestions, pointing out that this would have a definite influence on the stability of the market.

SEDD, led by H.E. Ali Salim Al Mahmoud, is looking to set up more meetings with the cooperation of the Ministry of Economy, and has stressed the vital importance of public cooperation in reporting any violation. The Department has put in place plans that ensure immediate action against any violation, and has prepared inspection teams who will be on patrol for this purpose.