Saturday 12 / July / 2025
Muscat: In a joint move to strengthen consumer rights and promote environmentally responsible practices, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion in Oman, in collaboration with the Consumer Protection Authority, has issued an official directive requiring all retail establishments and commercial centres to provide free bags to shoppers.
Key Provisions of the Directive
The initiative outlines three key guidelines aimed at standardising bag distribution and improving service transparency:
Free Bags as a Basic Service
Retail outlets must supply bags free of charge as part of their standard service.
Bags must be environmentally friendly, technically compliant, and adequately sized for practical use.
Optional Paid Alternatives
Businesses may offer premium bag options for a fee.
These alternatives must be clearly presented as optional, ensuring that consumers are not compelled to forgo the free bags.
Clear Communication at Points of Sale
Retailers are required to clearly communicate their bag policies to customers.
This measure aims to prevent hidden fees and ensure transparency in commercial practices.
Promoting Accountability and Consumer Confidence
The directive is part of a national effort to regulate commercial operations and safeguard consumer interests while maintaining quality standards in services and products. The Ministry and the Authority emphasised that the move supports a balance between merchant interests and consumer rights, ensuring fair treatment and access to essential shopping materials.
